2 fatalities

Cargo Flight Strikes Mountain Near Fort Collins, Killing Both Pilots (N1301N)

Fort Collins, United States of AmericaFlight

On November 16, 1958, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration N1301N) operated by Capitol Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Collins, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo flight from Denver-Stapleton to Ogden-Hill AFB struck a mountain slope near Fort Collins while cruising at 8,700 feet in poor weather with icing and turbulence. The wreckage was found hours later; both pilots died.

Accident Details

A cargo flight en route from Denver-Stapleton to Ogden-Hill Air Force Base in Utah collided with a mountainside near Fort Collins, Colorado. The aircraft was cruising at an altitude of 8,700 feet when it struck the slope. Weather conditions at the time were poor, characterized by icing and turbulence. According to investigators, the aircraft lost altitude until impacting terrain.

Wreckage and Crew

Search crews located the wreckage a few hours after the accident. Both pilots on board were killed in the crash. No other occupants were reported.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, weather was poor with icing conditions and turbulence. These conditions were noted as factors in the event, though no specific cause has been assigned.

Investigation

The investigation focused on the aircraft's loss of altitude prior to impact. The official report concluded that it is believed the airplane descended until it struck the mountain.