Viewing page 283 of 349

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

HEADQUARTERS
WESTERN SECTOR
INDIA CHINA WING                  
AIR TRANSPORT COMMAND

F/C/nb.

APO 465 % Postmaster,
New York, New York, 
3 April 1944.

SUBJECT: C-46 Accident Barrackpore India, March 30, 1944.

TO : Lt. Colonel Joe Mountain, Wing Training Officer, Station 20, ICWATC, APO 630.

1. Inclosed is a copy of the findings of the accident Board at Barrackpore concerning the investigations of Lt. Stoner's accident. In an effort to determine additional circumstances I personally talked to the crew chief Pfc. George W. Weldy and he was positive that nothing happened to the aircraft or engine until the airplane got off the runway and hit a P-51. From all available information the most logical conclusion is that a combination of torque and a light cross wind from the west caused the pilot to veer to left on take-off.

2. Lt Stoner was certainly familiar with the characteristics of the C-46 as take-off so I am at a loss to attribute the accident to anything except flying technique. Due to the difference in the way the ship handles empty and with gross load I believe we should concentrate on gross load take-offs and landings for night operations and particularly on cross wind take-offs and landings. 

3. I would sure appreciate any comments or ideas that you may have. An hope to get up to Gaya to see you in the very near furtue. 

[[signed]] George S Cassady [[/signed]]
GEORGE S CASSADY,
Major, Air Corps,
Chief Pilot Sta 3.