Narrative:Takeoff from Davis Monthan AFB was attempted with the gust locks engaged. The crew failed to abort the takeoff, causing the DC-4 to overrun the runway.
Inadequate pre-flight preparation and lack of familiarity with the aircraft were the cause of the crew's failure to remove the gust locks prior to takeoff.
Probable Cause:
PROBABLE CAUSE:
pilot in command - inadequate preflight preparation and/or planning
pilot in command - lack of familiarity with aircraft
pilot in command - failed to abort takeoff
miscellaneous acts,conditions - gust locks engaged
FACTORS:
personnel - operational supervisory personnel: inadequate supervision of flight crew
miscellaneous - unqualified person operated aircraft
airports/airways/facilities - airport conditions: other
miscellaneous acts,conditions - checklist-failed to use
miscellaneous acts,conditions - downwind
Classification:
Locked rudders/ailerons/gustlock
Rejected takeoff
Runway excursion
Sources:
» NTSB
Photos
Map
This map shows the airport of departure and the intended destination of the flight. The line between the airports does
not display the exact flight path.
Distance from Tucson-Davis Monthan AFB, AZ to Daggett-Barstow-Daggett Airport, CA as the crow flies is 619 km (387 miles).
This information is not presented as the Flight Safety Foundation or the Aviation Safety Network’s opinion as to the cause of the accident. It is preliminary and is based on the facts as they are known at this time.