On February 20, 1970, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration B-243) operated by Far Eastern Air Transport - FAT was involved in an aviation accident near Taipei-Songshan, Taiwan during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck a nearby hill while the crew was executing a turn during the initial climb phase. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft crashed into a hillside shortly after departing from Taipei-Songshan Airport, resulting in the deaths of both crew members.
What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from runway 10 at Taipei-Songshan Airport, the flight encountered terrain during a maneuver. While the aircraft was ascending, the crew began an intentional turn toward a heading of 240 degrees. During this turn, the aircraft type collided with a hill measuring 374 meters in elevation situated in the vicinity of the airport.
The impact caused the plane to break apart upon hitting the terrain. There were two fatalities recorded, involving both members of the flight crew. No other persons were on board at the time of the accident.
Findings
The collision occurred while the aircraft was performing a turn during its climb.
The impact with the 374-meter hill resulted in the disintegration of the airframe.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck a nearby hill while the crew was executing a turn during the initial climb phase.
What happened in the 20 Feb 1970 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Taipei-Songshan, Taiwan?
An aircraft crashed into a hillside shortly after departing from Taipei-Songshan Airport, resulting in the deaths of both crew members.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 Feb 1970 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Feb 1970 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration B-243, operated by Far Eastern Air Transport - FAT, at Taipei-Songshan, Taiwan.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft struck a nearby hill while the crew was executing a turn during the initial climb phase.
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