No fatalities

1973-12-31: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (N481F) — Ray Geophysical — Tombouctou, Mali

Tombouctou, MaliFlight

On December 31, 1973, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration N481F) operated by Ray Geophysical was involved in an aviation accident near Tombouctou, Mali in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine power loss in flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781231873Data APIEditorial standards

A Ray Geophysical aircraft on a Texaco mission experienced an engine power loss en route, crashed after striking trees, and was damaged beyond repair; all six occupants escaped with one minor injury.

Accident Overview

A loss of engine power during cruise flight forced the crew to attempt an emergency landing. The aircraft subsequently struck trees and crashed in flames north of Tombouctou. All six occupants managed to evacuate; one passenger sustained a slight injury. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Aircraft and Mission

The airplane was owned by Ray Geophysical and was operating on an on-demand mission on behalf of Texaco. The exact date of the accident is not recorded, but it occurred sometime in 1973.

Damage and Injuries

The aircraft was destroyed by impact and fire. The six occupants—presumably including crew and passengers—escaped the wreckage. One passenger suffered a minor injury; no other injuries were reported.

Official Finding

The probable cause was determined to be an engine power loss in flight.