Engine failure leads to fatal crash at Pope AFB

2 fatalities • Pope AFB (Fayetteville), United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

An engine failure during the climb phase caused an aircraft to stall and crash into a construction site near Pope Air Force Base, resulting in multiple fatalities.

What happened

During the initial climb following departure from Pope Air Force Base, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of power due to an engine malfunction. This mechanical failure led to an aerodynamic stall, causing the plane to descend uncontrollably.

The aircraft impacted a barracks building that was currently under construction. The collision resulted in two fatalities among the crew members on board. Additionally, the crash caused injuries to ten other occupants of the aircraft and two workers who were present on the ground at the time of the impact.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was an engine failure occurring shortly after takeoff.

Probable cause

The loss of power from an engine failure during the climb phase led to a stall and subsequent crash.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1954-10-06 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident near Pope AFB (Fayetteville), United States of America?

An engine failure during the climb phase caused an aircraft to stall and crash into a construction site near Pope Air Force Base, resulting in multiple fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1954-10-06 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1954-10-06 involved a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar, registration 52-5859, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Pope AFB (Fayetteville), United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of power from an engine failure during the climb phase led to a stall and subsequent crash.

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