1973-11-16: Grumman C-2A Greyhound (152787) — United States Navy - USN — Chania, Greece

7 fatalitiesChania, GreeceTakeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced dual engine failure shortly after departing Chania-Souda Airport for a mission to a US Navy vessel, resulting in a crash at sea.

What happened

During a flight departing from Chania-Souda Airport bound for a US Navy ship positioned in the Mediterranean Sea, an aircraft experienced a simultaneous failure of both engines. The incident occurred shortly after the plane had transitioned into its initial climb phase following takeoff.

As a result of the loss of power, the aircraft descended into the sea at a location approximately 8 km away from the coast. The accident resulted in seven fatalities and left three crew members successfully rescued from the wreckage.

Findings

Investigations into the crash were unable to pinpoint the specific reason for the double engine failure. While no definitive conclusion was reached regarding the mechanical or operational origin of the power loss, investigators did not dismiss the possibility that the fuel supply may have been contaminated with water.

Probable cause

The precise cause of the dual engine failure remains undetermined, though water contamination in the fuel is considered a possible factor.