Aircraft crash near Ashiya Air Base

3 fatalities • Ashiya AFB, Japan • Takeoff (climb)

A flight departing from Ashiya Air Base crashed into the sea following an engine component failure, resulting in three fatalities.

What happened

Shortly after departing from Ashiya Air Base, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure involving the right propeller. This malfunction led to a total loss of control over the aircraft. During the descent, five crew members successfully exited the plane via bailout. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ocean approximately 33 km north of the airfield.

Following the crash, a Japanese fishing vessel assisted in the recovery efforts, and four crew members were rescued from the water. However, the accident resulted in three fatalities, including both pilots and one additional occupant.

Findings

Investigations into the incident determined that the primary factor was the malfunction of the right propeller, which directly caused the loss of control during the flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost control due to a failure in the right propeller shortly after takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1955-03-01 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident near Ashiya AFB, Japan?

A flight departing from Ashiya Air Base crashed into the sea following an engine component failure, resulting in three fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1955-03-01 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1955-03-01 involved a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar, registration 52-5886, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Ashiya AFB, Japan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost control due to a failure in the right propeller shortly after takeoff.

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