Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident at Mt Parnitha, Greece, 6 Jun 1949 (SX-BAI)
On June 6, 1949, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration SX-BAI) operated by TAE National Greek Airlines (TAE - Technical Aeronautical Exploitations ) was involved in an aviation accident near Mt Parnitha, Greece during landing or approach. 22 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of control was caused by the failure of the right wing in flight. Investigations revealed that turbulences and pressure was above the load certification, causing the wing to fail in flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Probable cause
The loss of control was caused by the failure of the right wing in flight. Investigations revealed that turbulences and pressure was above the load certification, causing the wing to fail in flight.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
While approaching Athens-Hassani Airport, the crew encountered poor weather conditions and the aircraft entered cumulonimbus. In thunderstorm activity with turbulences, the aircraft went out of control, dove into the ground and crashed on the slope of Mt Parnitha (1,413 meters high) located about 30 km north of Hassani Airport. The aircraft was totally destroyed and all 22 occupants were killed.
Probable cause (official findings): The loss of control was caused by the failure of the right wing in flight. Investigations revealed that turbulences and pressure was above the load certification, causing the wing to fail in flight.