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Twin-Engine Aircraft Crash in Slatington During Approach to Allentown-Bethlehem Easton Airport (N281M)

Slatington, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On June 29, 1979, a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor (registration N281M) operated by Shane Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Slatington, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with trees during initial approach due to improper IFR operation. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed in a wooded area in Slatington after descending below the glide path during a foggy approach to Allentown-Bethlehem Easton Airport, injuring both occupants.

Incident Overview During an initial approach to Allentown-Bethlehem Easton Airport, a twin-engine aircraft encountered reduced visibility caused by fog and a low ceiling. The aircraft descended below the intended glide path and struck trees before crashing in a wooded area in Slatington, approximately 10.5 miles short of the runway 13 threshold. The aircraft was destroyed, and both occupants sustained injuries. ## Contributing Factors The official investigation identified the probable cause as a collision with trees during the initial approach due to improper IFR operation. Contributing factors included a low ceiling, fog, and visibility of two miles or less.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Jun 1979 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident near Slatington, United States of America?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed in a wooded area in Slatington after descending below the glide path during a foggy approach to Allentown-Bethlehem Easton Airport, injuring both occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 29 Jun 1979 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Jun 1979 involved a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor, registration N281M, operated by Shane Aviation, at Slatington, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Collision with trees during initial approach due to improper IFR operation.

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