What happened
On January 12, 1952, a General Airways, Inc. cargo flight was operating an instrument flight rule (IFR) route from Annette, Alaska, toward Anchorage. The aircraft, registration N 41748, a Douglas DC-6 (implied by context of era/type), was transporting a load of produce, specifically crated eggs. After a scheduled stop in Annette to refuel and wait for weather improvements, the flight departed at 0931 under IFR.
During the transit, the crew reported encountering significant headwinds. The final radio communications indicated the aircraft was maintaining an altitude of 9,000 feet and providing estimated arrival times for various waypoints, including Sitka and Cape Spencer. However, after passing the Cape Spencer intersection, the aircraft failed to make further contact with air traffic control. The flight subsequently struck Mount Crillon at 9,000 feet MSL, approximately 30 miles northeast of its intended path, resulting in all fatalities among the crew.
Findings
Investigation into the accident revealed that all onboard radio and navigation equipment was functioning correctly during the period following departure from Annette. The aircraft's weight and balance were within certified limits, and no mechanical malfunctions were reported by the pilots prior to the impact.
Significant environmental factors included much stronger winds than previously forecasted; while the crew had been briefed on 65-knot winds, actual conditions involved winds of approximately 80 knots from 210 degrees. Ultimately, the investigation concluded that the accident was caused by improper navigation leading to a deviation from the planned flight route.