On June 3, 1972, a Beechcraft E18 (registration N234AP) operated by Smyer Commuter Air Lines was involved in an aviation accident near Winfield, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Uncontrolled descent following an in-flight fire from undetermined source which cause the left wing separation. Left propeller found feathered. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A night cargo flight from Arkansas City to White Plains, NY, crashed near Winfield, killing both occupants. The aircraft was destroyed. Investigation found uncontrolled descent after in-flight fire caused left wing separation.
Accident Overview
A cargo aircraft was cruising at night on a flight from Arkansas City to White Plains, New York. It went out of control and crashed in flames in an open field near Winfield. The crash site was in a rural area. The aircraft was totally destroyed by the impact and fire. Both occupants of the aircraft were killed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be an uncontrolled descent following an in-flight fire from an undetermined source. This fire caused the left wing to separate from the aircraft. Additionally, the left propeller was found in the feathered position.
