On May 13, 1933, a Pitcairn PA-7 Mailwing (registration NC351V) operated by Pennsylvania Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Bedford, United States of America in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure in flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A single-engine aircraft crashed after an engine failure during a night mail flight from Washington DC to Pittsburgh. The pilot ejected safely, but the airframe was destroyed upon impact.
What happened
During a scheduled night mail flight operating between Washington DC and Pittsburgh, the aircraft experienced a total loss of power while cruising at an altitude of approximately 3,000 feet. Faced with the inability to locate suitable terrain for an emergency landing in the dark conditions, the pilot decided to abandon the airframe. The pilot ejected from the cockpit and was uninjured following the descent. The aircraft subsequently dove into the ground, resulting in the total destruction of the machine.
Findings
The official investigation identified the primary factor leading to the accident as an engine failure occurring during flight. This mechanical malfunction forced the pilot to attempt an emergency landing or ejection, ultimately resulting in the loss of the aircraft.
What happened in the 13 May 1933 Pitcairn PA-7 Mailwing accident near Bedford, United States of America?
A single-engine aircraft crashed after an engine failure during a night mail flight from Washington DC to Pittsburgh. The pilot ejected safely, but the airframe was destroyed upon impact.
Were there any fatalities in the 13 May 1933 Pitcairn PA-7 Mailwing accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 May 1933 involved a Pitcairn PA-7 Mailwing, registration NC351V, operated by Pennsylvania Airlines, at Bedford, United States of America.
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