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: The aircraft struck trees during its approach because the crew failed to maintain proper instrument flight rules procedures amidst low visibility and fog. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft crashed in a wooded area near Slatington during its approach to Allentown-Bethlehem Easton Airport due to poor visibility.
What happened
During an approach to the Allentown-Bethlehem Easton Airport, a twin engine aircraft encountered significant weather challenges, including fog and a low cloud ceiling that restricted visibility. While attempting to descend toward the runway, the flight path deviated below the glide slope. The aircraft subsequently collided with trees in a forested region situated in Slatington, approximately 10.5 miles before reaching the threshold of runway 13.
The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were two occupants on board the aircraft, both of whom sustained injuries during the accident.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the primary reason for the accident was a collision with trees during the initial approach caused by improper IFR operation. Several environmental factors contributed to the difficulty of the flight, including:
Reduced visibility of two miles or less
Presence of fog
Low cloud ceiling
Probable cause
The aircraft struck trees during its approach because the crew failed to maintain proper instrument flight rules procedures amidst low visibility and fog.