1 fatality

Engine failure leads to fatal crash near Daegu Airport (51-2552)

Daegu, South KoreaTakeoff (climb)

On October 20, 1954, a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar (registration 51-2552) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Daegu, South Korea during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine failed during the climb phase immediately following takeoff. 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 an engine failure during its initial climb from Daegu Airport, resulting in a crash and at least one fatality.

What happened

During the takeoff phase from Daegu Airport, the aircraft encountered a critical mechanical issue. While the flight was performing its climb, the aircraft experienced an engine failure. This loss of power led to an aerodynamic stall, causing the plane to descend into a field situated approximately 2.7 km east of the airport perimeter.

Following the impact, it was confirmed that there was at least one fatality among the crew members on board. The wreckage was located in the area near the airfield following the loss of control during the ascent.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor leading to the crash was an engine failure occurring shortly after the aircraft departed the runway.

Probable cause

The engine failed during the climb phase immediately following takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Oct 1954 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident near Daegu, South Korea?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during its initial climb from Daegu Airport, resulting in a crash and at least one fatality.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Oct 1954 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Oct 1954 involved a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar, registration 51-2552, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Daegu, South Korea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed during the climb phase immediately following takeoff.