Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident at Ramenye, Russia, 18 Dec 1943 (CCCP-L825)
On December 18, 1943, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration CCCP-L825) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Ramenye, Russia during landing or approach. 14 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was stated that weather conditions deteriorated in flight and that the crew attempted to land in below-minima conditions. 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.
Probable cause
It was stated that weather conditions deteriorated in flight and that the crew attempted to land in below-minima conditions.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
The aircraft was carrying 9 paratroopers, a crew of five and various goods for the Latvian soldiers based in the east part of Latvia, behind the enemy lines. While approaching the target, the crew encountered poor weather conditions and the captain decided to return to his base in Staraya Toropa, in the Tver region. On the back trip, the weather worsened and by night and low visibility, the crew attempted to land in below-minima conditions. On approach, the aircraft crashed in a prairie located 1 km southwest of Ramenye and was destroyed. All 14 occupants were killed.
Probable cause (official findings): It was stated that weather conditions deteriorated in flight and that the crew attempted to land in below-minima conditions.