3 fatalities

Aircraft crash near Alexandria Airport following engine failure (51-8142)

Alexandria-Esler Regional, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On September 6, 1955, a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar (registration 51-8142) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Alexandria-Esler Regional, United States of America during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine failed during the initial climb phase, leading to a loss of airspeed and a subsequent stall. 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)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed approximately three miles north of Alexandria Airport during its initial climb, resulting in multiple fatalities.

What happened

Shortly after departing from Alexandria Airport, the aircraft experienced a mechanical issue involving an engine. While performing the initial climb phase of the flight, the loss of power led to an aerodynamic stall. The aircraft subsequently descended and impacted the ground at a location situated three miles north of the airfield.

As a result of the impact, there were three fatalities among the occupants. Additionally, three individuals sustained injuries during the accident.

Findings

Official investigations determined that the primary factor in the accident was an engine failure occurring shortly after takeoff.

Probable cause

The engine failed during the initial climb phase, leading to a loss of airspeed and a subsequent stall.