Accident Sequence
During takeoff from runway 25 at DuBois-Jefferson County Airport, the aircraft experienced a loss of control. It veered left off the runway, descended an embankment, and ultimately came to rest in a wooded area. The takeoff was conducted with a 7-knot crosswind and an unlocked tailwheel. The pilot at the controls was described as inexperienced and unqualified to operate the DC-3.
Injuries and Damage
All 11 individuals on board sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed as a result of the impact and subsequent terrain collision.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident was loss of control at takeoff due to the inexperience of the unqualified pilot making the takeoff and the failure of the experienced pilot in the right seat to assume timely control. The sequence was initiated by the poor judgment of the pilot-in-command in permitting an unqualified pilot to make the takeoff, and by the Regional Director occupying the left seat, which violated the operator's own rules requiring that the aircraft be flown by qualified pilots at their respective duty stations.