What happened
During a flight from Sheppard AFB to Carswell AFB, a USAF Fairchild C-119C-17-FA Flying Boxcar, registered 49-0195, was involved in a mid-air collision. The aircraft was traveling alongside a four-engine transport flying from Kelly AFB to Tinker AFB. At the time of the incident, both planes were cruising at an altitude of 6,000 feet amidst unfavorable weather conditions.
The impact occurred while both aircraft were maintaining the same flight level. Following the collision, both the C-119C-17-FA and the other aircraft descended rapidly into a field situated near Bridgeport. The accident resulted in 18 fatalities, accounting for all occupants on both aircraft.
Findings
Investigations into the crash determined that the primary cause was an operational error by the crew of the 49-0195. Although air traffic control had issued instructions for the crew to maintain an altitude of 7,000 feet, they continued their flight at 6,000 feet. This failure to adhere to altitude instructions placed them on a direct path with the other aircraft. Additionally, poor visibility due to inclement weather was identified as a contributing element to the accident.