3 fatalities

1968-10-23: Beechcraft 80 Queen Air (N303D) — University of Wisconsin — Houghton, United States of America

Houghton, United States of AmericaFlight

On October 23, 1968, a Beechcraft 80 Queen Air (registration N303D) operated by University of Wisconsin was involved in an aviation accident near Houghton, United States of America in flight. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Due to lack of evidences, the cause of the accident could not be determined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781238335Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft conducting atmospheric research crashed into a lake near Houghton, Michigan, under unknown circumstances. Search and rescue operations were suspended after no trace of the aircraft or its three occupants was found.

Incident Overview

An aircraft on an atmospheric research mission crashed into a lake in the region of Houghton, Michigan, after losing control under unknown circumstances while en route. The incident prompted search and rescue (SAR) operations, which were suspended several days later as no trace of the aircraft or its three occupants was located.

Investigation and Findings

The investigation into the crash was hampered by a lack of physical evidence. Official findings state: "Due to lack of evidences, the cause of the accident could not be determined." The precise sequence of events leading to the loss of control remains unknown.

Search and Rescue Efforts

Search and rescue teams conducted operations in the lake area but ultimately suspended the effort after days of searching yielded no signs of the aircraft or the three individuals on board. The suspension indicates that no wreckage or remains were recovered.

Context

The aircraft was engaged in a mission focused on atmospheric research at the time of the accident. Further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or exact date of the incident are not specified in available records.

Probable cause

Due to lack of evidences, the cause of the accident could not be determined.