On April 11, 1980, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration N64490) operated by Clifford A. Hackney Sr. was involved in an aviation accident near Athol-Silverwood, United States of America during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during initial climb for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors: failure to abort takeoff, first flight of aircraft for approximately 11 months, pilot's certificate under suspension. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Shortly after takeoff from Athol-Silverwood, the airplane struggled to gain height, stalled, and crashed past the runway end. Three crew members were killed, and three passengers were seriously injured. The probable cause was engine failure for undetermined reasons, with contributing factors including failure to abort takeoff, first flight in 11 months, and suspended pilot certificate.
Accident Details
A short time after departing from Athol-Silverwood, the aircraft experienced difficulty gaining altitude during the initial climb. It subsequently stalled and crashed in flames in a prairie field located beyond the end of the runway.
Injuries and Fatalities
All three passengers sustained serious injuries. All three crew members were killed in the accident.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be engine failure during initial climb for undetermined reasons. The following contributing factors were reported: the failure to abort the takeoff, the aircraft's first flight after approximately 11 months of inactivity, and the pilot's certificate being under suspension at the time of the accident.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 Apr 1980 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Athol-Silverwood, United States of America?
Shortly after takeoff from Athol-Silverwood, the airplane struggled to gain height, stalled, and crashed past the runway end. Three crew members were killed, and three passengers were seriously injured. The probable cause was engine failure for undetermined reasons, with contributing factors including failure to…
Were there any fatalities in the 11 Apr 1980 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Apr 1980 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration N64490, operated by Clifford A. Hackney Sr., at Athol-Silverwood, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Engine failure during initial climb for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors: failure to abort takeoff, first flight of aircraft for approximately 11 months, pilot's certificate under suspension.