On November 1, 1998, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration N3FY) operated by Living Water Teaching Ministries was involved in an aviation accident near Quetzaltenango-Los Altos, Guatemala during landing or approach. 11 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew was approaching the airport under VFR mode in IMC conditions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A humanitarian flight carrying doctors and supplies for Hurricane Mitch victims crashed near Quetzaltenango in poor weather. Seven rescued, 11 killed including ministry owners.
Accident
A humanitarian flight operated on behalf of the Living Water Teaching Ministries, owned by Jim and Marion Zirkle, crashed while approaching Quetzaltenango. The aircraft was completing a flight from Playa Grande carrying 16 passengers and two pilots, including doctors and a load of medicines and first aid kits intended for victims of Hurricane Mitch.
Approach conditions were poor, with heavy rain and thick fog. The aircraft struck the ground a few kilometers from the airport. Seven people were rescued from the wreckage, while 11 others were killed, among them Jim Zirkle and his son.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause: The crew was approaching the airport under VFR mode in IMC conditions.