Aircraft disappearance during approach to Charlotte Amalie

2 fatalities • Charlotte Amalie-Cyril E. King (ex Harry S. Truman), US Virgin Islands • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine cargo aircraft disappeared after crashing into the sea during a night approach to Charlotte Amalie.

What happened

During a nighttime cargo operation traveling from Christiansted, a twin engine airplane lost control while approaching Charlotte Amalie. The aircraft impacted the ocean surface during its approach phase.

Following the crash, search and rescue operations were initiated to locate the wreckage and any survivors. These efforts continued for several days before being officially terminated. Despite the extensive search, no debris from the plane or any evidence regarding the status of the crew was recovered.

Findings

Because the wreckage of the aircraft remains missing, investigators were unable to recover physical evidence from the site. Consequently, the specific reason for the loss of control and the subsequent crash could not be established.

Probable cause

The exact cause of the accident remains undetermined due to the absence of wreckage and physical evidence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1974-10-02 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Charlotte Amalie-Cyril E. King (ex Harry S. Truman), US Virgin Islands?

A twin-engine cargo aircraft disappeared after crashing into the sea during a night approach to Charlotte Amalie.

Were there any fatalities in the 1974-10-02 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1974-10-02 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration N864JA, operated by North Cay Airways, at Charlotte Amalie-Cyril E. King (ex Harry S. Truman), US Virgin Islands.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exact cause of the accident remains undetermined due to the absence of wreckage and physical evidence.

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