1 fatality

Fatal aircraft accident during takeoff (51-8085)

Matsushima AFB, JapanTakeoff (climb)

On April 16, 1955, a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar (registration 51-8085) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Matsushima AFB, Japan during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine failed while the aircraft was attempting to take off. 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 crashed during its takeoff roll following a mechanical failure, resulting in at least one fatality among the crew.

What happened

During the initial phase of flight, an aircraft experienced a critical loss of power. While attempting to depart, the aircraft suffered an engine failure, which prevented the crew from maintaining necessary performance levels. As a result of this mechanical malfunction, the aircraft crashed during the takeoff sequence.

As a consequence of the impact, there was at least one fatality recorded among the crew members on board. No further details regarding the specific location or the identity of the operator were provided in the initial report.

Findings

The investigation into the accident identified that the primary factor leading to the crash was an engine failure occurring during the takeoff phase.

Probable cause

The engine failed while the aircraft was attempting to take off.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Apr 1955 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident near Matsushima AFB, Japan?

An aircraft crashed during its takeoff roll following a mechanical failure, resulting in at least one fatality among the crew.

Were there any fatalities in the 16 Apr 1955 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 16 Apr 1955 involved a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar, registration 51-8085, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Matsushima AFB, Japan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed while the aircraft was attempting to take off.