DC-4 Crash Near Ernest Harmon Air Force Base
October 3rd, 1946
October 3rd, 1946

How Long Ago?
78 years, 5 months, 12 days ago
Location
Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Category
Accidents & Tragedies
Links & References
- Douglas DC-4
- American Overseas Airlines
- 1946 American Overseas Airlines Douglas DC-4 crash
- Ernest Harmon Air Force Base
- Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador
Tags
DC-4 Crash Near Ernest Harmon Air Force Base
A Douglas DC-4 operated by American Overseas Airlines crashed near Ernest Harmon Air Force Base while attempting to land. The incident resulted in the deaths of 39 individuals on board. The aircraft was returning from a flight and faced adverse weather conditions during its final approach. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene, but the circumstances of the crash led to a swift investigation into the causes.
39 fatalities from the crash.
Poor visibility contributed to the accident.
Emergency services responded quickly.
Investigation focused on safety regulations.
What Happened?
In an unfortunate accident, a Douglas DC-4 operated by American Overseas Airlines crashed just outside of Ernest Harmon Air Force Base, located in Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador. The aircraft was carrying 39 passengers and crew, all of whom were tragically killed in the incident. The plane was on its way back from a transatlantic flight, and eyewitness accounts indicated that poor visibility and inclement weather conditions were prevalent at the time of the crash. These factors contributed significantly to the challenges faced by the flight crew as they attempted to safely land the aircraft. The crash site was quickly attended to by local emergency services, who faced difficulties due to the remote terrain of the area.A thorough investigation followed, which aimed to uncover any potential technical failures or operational errors that may have led to such a catastrophic outcome. Features of the Douglas DC-4, known for its long-range capabilities and passenger comfort, were scrutinized in order to assess the safety protocols in place during this time. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) took an interest in the incident, providing additional oversight and recommendations based on their findings. The tragedy raised significant concerns about aviation safety standards and emergency response procedures, prompting discussions within the industry regarding regulations for international flights during adverse weather conditions.
Why Does it Matter?
The DC-4 crash underscored the importance of aviation safety and led to enhancements in flight regulations and protocols, particularly regarding weather assessments before landing. The tragic loss raised public awareness about the risks of air travel during inclement weather, influencing future policies and safety measures in the aviation industry. As air travel began to increase in popularity worldwide, such events highlighted the need for continuous improvement to ensure passenger safety.
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