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8 fatalities

Propeller Blade Separation Leads to Crash Landing Near Billings (51-2590)

Billings, United States of AmericaFlight

On November 17, 1952, a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar (registration 51-2590) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Billings, United States of America in flight. 8 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of a propeller blade in flight and the left engine later detached due to severe vibrations. 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)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

During a flight from Edmonton to Denver, a propeller blade detached, causing engine failure and severe vibrations. The left engine later detached, forcing an emergency landing in a field near Billings. Eight occupants were killed, eight injured.

Incident Overview

While cruising at 9,000 feet on a flight from Edmonton to Denver, the flight crew encountered technical problems with the left engine. A propeller blade detached and struck the fuselage. Shortly afterward, the engine suffered severe vibrations and subsequently detached from its mount.

Emergency Response

In response to the deteriorating conditions, the crew reduced altitude and attempted an emergency landing. The aircraft crash-landed in a field located 12 miles east of Billings, struck a ditch, and came to rest in flames.

Casualties and Damage

Eight occupants were killed and eight others were injured as a result of the crash and subsequent fire.

Probable cause

Loss of a propeller blade in flight and the left engine later detached due to severe vibrations.
Structural failure

Related events

Same operator

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