Narrative:The DC-5 transport plane took off from Charleville, QLD carrying about 20 U.S. Servicemen who were heading to Brisbane on leave. After climbing to 6000 feet one engine lost power completely. The crew feathered the propeller but were unable to maintain height.
A forced landing was carried out on emergency landing strip near Lurnea Siding, about 30 miles east of Charleville. A satisfactory touch-down was made but unfortunately, on the strip, there was an anthill which was hit at about 70 mph causing the undercarriage strut to be pushed through a wing. Substantial damage to the airframe resulted but nobody was injured.
Sources:
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Douglas DC-5 in Australia / D. Goodall
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 Charleville Airport, QLD to Brisbane-Archerfield Airport, QLD as the crow flies is 678 km (424 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.