No fatalities

In-flight structural failure leads to emergency bailout (49-0153)

Atsugi NAS, JapanFlight

On May 24, 1951, a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar (registration 49-0153) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Atsugi NAS, Japan in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A structural failure occurred while the aircraft was in flight, necessitating an emergency bailout by the crew. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced a mid-air structural failure, forcing the crew to abandon the plane before it crashed.

What happened

During the flight, the aircraft suffered a significant structural failure. This mechanical breakdown occurred while the plane was still airborne, making continued flight impossible. In response to the deteriorating condition of the airframe, the crew was forced to execute an emergency abandonment of the aircraft.

Following the decision to exit the plane, the crew members successfully performed a bailout. While the occupants managed to escape the wreckage, the aircraft entered a steep dive toward the earth. The plane ultimately struck the ground with enough force to result in its total destruction.

Findings

  • All individuals on board survived the incident without reported fatalities.
  • The primary factor leading to the emergency was a structural failure occurring during the flight phase.

Probable cause

A structural failure occurred while the aircraft was in flight, necessitating an emergency bailout by the crew.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 May 1951 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident near Atsugi NAS, Japan?

An aircraft experienced a mid-air structural failure, forcing the crew to abandon the plane before it crashed.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 May 1951 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 May 1951 involved a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar, registration 49-0153, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Atsugi NAS, Japan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A structural failure occurred while the aircraft was in flight, necessitating an emergency bailout by the crew.