On January 14, 1947, a Lockheed P-2 Harpoon (registration 37174) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Miramar NAS (San Diego), United States of America during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An engine fire led to a loss of control during the final approach phase of flight. 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.
A maritime patrol aircraft crashed one mile short of the runway after an engine fire forced an emergency return, resulting in five fatalities and two serious injuries.
What happened
During a maritime patrol mission, the flight crew reported to ground control that an engine had caught fire. In response to this mechanical failure, the pilots elected to abort their current route and return for an emergency landing. As the aircraft descended on final approach, it lost controllability at an altitude of approximately 200 feet. The plane subsequently crashed into terrain one mile before reaching the runway threshold.
The accident resulted in significant loss of life and injury among those on board. Five crew members were killed in the impact, while two others sustained serious injuries.
Probable cause
An engine fire led to a loss of control during the final approach phase of flight.
What happened in the 14 Jan 1947 Lockheed P-2 Harpoon accident near Miramar NAS (San Diego), United States of America?
A maritime patrol aircraft crashed one mile short of the runway after an engine fire forced an emergency return, resulting in five fatalities and two serious injuries.
Were there any fatalities in the 14 Jan 1947 Lockheed P-2 Harpoon accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Jan 1947 involved a Lockheed P-2 Harpoon, registration 37174, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Miramar NAS (San Diego), United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
An engine fire led to a loss of control during the final approach phase of flight.
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