What happened
Following a routine periodic inspection, a Fairchild C-119CF-FA (registration 51·8019) was deployed for a functional check flight with a minimal crew. While performing maneuvers at 5,000 feet, the crew encountered an issue where the number two propeller failed to reach the full feather position and continued to windmill.
In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot initiated an immediate return to Belleville-Scott AFB, Illinois. The flight crew requested a straight-in approach for runway 31, during which they shut down the second engine and prepared the aircraft for landing. The initial approach was deemed too high, prompting the crew to perform a go-around.
A second approach attempt was subsequently made; however, the aircraft maintained excessive speed and altitude. During the transition from a descent to level flight for this second go-around, the airspeed remained at approximately 130 knots. As the captain adjusted the flaps from 40° to 20° and attempted to retract the landing gear, the aircraft struck the runway. The plane slid off the runway perimeter into an adjacent grassy area, where a post-impact fire broke out. Base crash and rescue teams arrived on the scene and successfully contained the flames.
Findings
- The number two propeller failed to feather properly, resulting in a windmilling engine.
- The aircraft struck the runway during a go-around attempt due to being too high and fast on the second approach.