1968-07-28: Douglas C-124 Globemaster II (51-5178) — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Recife, Brazil

10 fatalitiesRecife, BrazilFlight

A four-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its night descent toward Recife-Guararapes Airport, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During a nighttime approach to Recife-Guararapes Airport, the crew of a four-engine aircraft began their descent toward the destination. While flying at an altitude of 1,890 feet, the plane collided with the side of a mountain situated approximately 80 km northwest of Recife.

Search efforts located the wreckage several hours after the impact. The accident resulted in 10 fatalities, as all members of the crew perished in the crash.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary factor in the accident was that the crew initiated their descent too early.

Probable cause

The flight crew began their descent toward the airport before reaching a safe altitude to clear local terrain.