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2 fatalities

Fatal crash during ILS approach in poor weather (NC59486)

Denver-Stapleton, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On February 14, 1947, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration NC59486) operated by Slick Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Denver-Stapleton, United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Momentary loss of control or overcontrol by the pilot at a critically low altitude during an ILS approach, compounded by the safety pilot's failure to monitor altitude. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

Aircraft struck a hillside while on final approach in poor visibility, resulting in the destruction of the plane and the deaths of both crew members.

What happened

The incident occurred during the final approach phase to runway 21 under poor weather conditions. While executing an ILS approach, the aircraft descended to a critically low altitude. The vehicle struck a hillside located less than one mile from the runway threshold. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe and the fatalities of both individuals on board.

Findings

The investigation concluded that the accident was caused by a momentary loss of control or overcontrol by the pilot at a critically low altitude during the final stages of the approach. A significant contributing factor was the failure of the safety pilot to maintain adequate alertness regarding the aircraft's altitude.

Probable cause

Momentary loss of control or overcontrol by the pilot at a critically low altitude during an ILS approach, compounded by the safety pilot's failure to monitor altitude.

Related events

Same operator

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