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1960-04-18: Douglas C-124 Globemaster II (52-1062) — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Stephenville, Canada

9 fatalitiesStephenville, CanadaTakeoff (climb)

A transport aircraft crashed into a hillside shortly after departing for RAF Mildenhall, resulting in the deaths of all nine crew members on board.

What happened

While operating a flight from Dover to RAF Mildenhall, Suffolk, an aircraft was transporting mail and medical supplies with scheduled stops at Stephenville and Lajes. During the initial climb following takeoff, the plane encountered heavy fog that significantly reduced visibility. Approximately 10 km from the airfield, the aircraft collided with a hill situated at an elevation of 450 feet. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe.

Findings

  • All nine fatalities occurred among the crew members on board.
  • The accident was precipitated by low visibility caused by fog during the climb phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck terrain while climbing through dense fog shortly after departure.

Related events

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