Accident Details
A C-47 aircraft was on approach to Bettles Airport. The approach was unstable and conducted in adverse weather conditions characterized by low ceiling, fog, and blowing snow. At the time of the accident, the visibility was less than half a mile, which was below the established minimums for the approach. During the final approach segment, the C-47 crashed into three parked aircraft on the apron. The collision destroyed the C-47 and resulted in the deaths of both pilots.
Investigative Findings
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a collision with parked aircraft during the final approach, attributed to improper IFR operation. Several contributing factors were identified: the presence of low ceiling, fog, and blowing snow; visibility of less than half a mile (below minimums); the lack of a designated alternate airport; and the execution of a LOC/DME approach.