Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident at Quirindi, Australia, 2 Sept 1948 (VH-ANK)
On September 2, 1948, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration VH-ANK) operated by Australian National Airways - ANA was involved in an aviation accident near Quirindi, Australia in flight. 13 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Investigations were unable to determine the exact cause of the accident. However, the inquiry found that the probable cause of the crash was interference with the airplane's magnetic compass due to a nearby electrical storm and a defect in the navigational… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
Investigations were unable to determine the exact cause of the accident. However, the inquiry found that the probable cause of the crash was interference with the airplane's magnetic compass due to a nearby electrical storm and a defect in the navigational signals sent by the Government-maintained Kempsey low-frequency radio range station, an important navigational aid to flights in the area. Errors and deficiencies in the aeronautical charts used to navigate the mountainous area were also found.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
While cruising in low visibility due to marginal weather conditions, the aircraft hit the slope of Square Peak (4,600 feet) located in the region of Quirindi. The wreckage was found few hours later and all 13 occupants were killed. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was off course by 100 miles.
Probable cause (official findings): Investigations were unable to determine the exact cause of the accident. However, the inquiry found that the probable cause of the crash was interference with the airplane's magnetic compass due to a nearby electrical storm and a defect in the navigational signals sent by the Government-maintained Kempsey low-frequency radio range station, an important navigational aid to flights in the area. Errors and deficiencies in the aeronautical charts used to navigate the mountainous area were also found.