1969-11-09: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) — Austin Airways — Timmins, Canada

4 fatalities • Timmins, Canada • Landing (descent or approach)

Probable cause

The pilot made inadequate pre flight preparations for a flight into known marginal weather. The pilot descended below the minimum altitude. The pilot exposed himself and his crew to the effects of fatigue by attempting a flight after a long period of duty.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

While approaching Timmins Airport, the crew realized that weather conditions were marginal and decided to return to Winisk. This was not possible as the weather worsened at Winisk as well so the crew returned to Timmins and initiated a second approach despite the visibility was below minima. On final, the aircraft was too low and crashed three km short of runway threshold. Both pilots and two passengers were killed while four others were injured. The aircraft was destroyed.

Probable cause (official findings): The pilot made inadequate pre flight preparations for a flight into known marginal weather. The pilot descended below the minimum altitude. The pilot exposed himself and his crew to the effects of fatigue by attempting a flight after a long period of duty.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-11-09 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Timmins, Canada?

While approaching Timmins Airport, the crew realized that weather conditions were marginal and decided to return to Winisk. This was not possible as the weather worsened at Winisk as well so the crew returned to Timmins and initiated a second approach despite the visibility was below minima. On final, the aircraft…

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-11-09 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1969-11-09 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration CF-AAL, operated by Austin Airways, at Timmins, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot made inadequate pre flight preparations for a flight into known marginal weather. The pilot descended below the minimum altitude. The pilot exposed himself and his crew to the effects of fatigue by attempting a flight after a long period of duty.

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