Accident Details
On 29 June 1964, a Douglas HC-54 (serial number 42-72590) of the USAF 57th Air Rescue Squadron and a Boeing HC-97 (serial number 52-2773) of the USAF 55th Air Rescue Squadron were involved in a mid-air collision near Kindley Air Base, Bermuda. The mission was a combined pararescue training exercise and aerial photography flight in support of the NASA Gemini program.
Sequence of Events
The HC-97 took off at 11:05 local time, followed by the HC-54 at 11:10. Weather conditions were scattered clouds at 2,000 and 2,500 feet, visibility 9 miles, and winds variable at 8 knots. Both aircraft arrived in the drop area and, due to clouds, decided to fly the mission at 1,700 feet. Each aircraft carried photographers and pararescuemen, with additional photographers on boats in the drop area to capture the surface perspective.
As briefed, the aircraft established proper positions. The first run had the HC-97 taking photos while the HC-54, slightly forward and below, deployed pararescuemen. Right-hand patterns were flown, with the sun behind the cameras and angles chosen to avoid showing land surface. After several passes with pararescuemen deploying from the HC-54, the aircraft changed positions, placing the HC-54 slightly ahead, below, and to the left of the HC-97. After one dry run in the right-hand pattern, two pararescuemen deployed from the HC-97. Seconds later, the two aircraft collided.
The HC-54 suddenly banked to the right, striking the HC-97 on its wing or midsection, shearing off both its wing and tail section. Both aircraft immediately plunged into the water. The three boats in the area began a search for survivors. Both aircraft were destroyed, and there were no survivors.
Investigation
The primary cause of the accident was undetermined. However, Air Force investigators concluded that the probable cause was incapacitation of the HC-54 pilot. An autopsy revealed cardiovascular issues that may have caused acute chest pains.