3 fatalities

Fatal Crash on Approach to Bathurst Airport (NC14279)

Banjul, GambiaLanding (descent or approach)

On August 2, 1941, a Douglas DC-2 (registration NC14279) operated by U.S. Department of the Treasury was involved in an aviation accident near Banjul, Gambia during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-08-26Data APIEditorial standards

A three-crew aircraft crashed short of the runway at Bathurst Airport, resulting in the deaths of all personnel on board. The plane was destined for delivery to the Royal Air Force in Gambia.

What happened

The incident occurred while the aircraft was executing its final approach to Bathurst Airport. Instead of touching down safely, the airplane impacted the ground a few kilometers short of the runway threshold. The crash resulted in the immediate loss of life for all three crew members on board.

At the time of the accident, the aircraft was still registered to the US Department of the Treasury. It had been scheduled for delivery to the Royal Air Force in Gambia, indicating it was likely in a ferry or transfer configuration rather than operating as a standard commercial passenger service.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Aug 1941 Douglas DC-2 accident near Banjul, Gambia?

A three-crew aircraft crashed short of the runway at Bathurst Airport, resulting in the deaths of all personnel on board. The plane was destined for delivery to the Royal Air Force in Gambia.

Were there any fatalities in the 2 Aug 1941 Douglas DC-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Aug 1941 involved a Douglas DC-2, registration NC14279, operated by U.S. Department of the Treasury, at Banjul, Gambia.