Accident Overview
At approximately 1100 local time, a Seaboard & Western Airlines Lockheed L-1049D Super Constellation, operating training flight LN800, began its takeoff roll on runway 31R at New York International Airport (Idlewild). The aircraft became airborne upon reaching an airspeed of 117 knots (V2) and climbed to an altitude of about 25 feet. At that point, severe control difficulties were encountered, causing the aircraft to veer sharply to the left. The left wing lowered by an estimated 20 to 30 degrees and struck the runway, after which directional control was lost entirely.
Sequence of Events
The Super Constellation skidded in a westerly direction into a temporary terminal area, where it collided with a Viscount that was parked at a gate, awaiting boarding of passengers. The impact and subsequent fire destroyed both aircraft. The Viscount was unoccupied at the time of the collision, while all five crew members on board the Constellation sustained injuries.
Injuries and Damage
All five crew members aboard the Seaboard & Western Super Constellation were injured. The Viscount, which was empty, suffered no injuries. Both aircraft were completely destroyed by fire as a result of the collision and ensuing blaze.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was an unwanted propeller reversal at a low altitude occurring immediately after takeoff. A contributing factor was the inadequate overhaul procedure employed by the propeller manufacturer.
Operational Context
At the time of the accident, the Super Constellation was performing a training flight. The parked Viscount was in the process of boarding passengers at a gate. No other aircraft or ground personnel were involved.