On November 18, 1942, a Douglas DC-3 (registration NC16064) operated by United Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Wright-Patterson AFB (Dayton), United States of America during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew failed to maintain sufficient altitude during final approach, causing a wing strike with a tree that resulted in a stall and crash. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A cargo aircraft crashed into trees and burst into flames while on final approach to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, resulting in the deaths of all three crew members.
What happened
The incident occurred while the aircraft was executing a final approach to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The plane was operating as a cargo flight for the USAAF. During the descent, the crew did not recognize that their altitude was too low for the remaining distance to the runway. As a result, one of the wings struck a tree. This impact caused the aircraft to stall, leading to a crash into the terrain. Upon impact, the airplane immediately caught fire.
Findings
The primary factor in the accident was the crew's failure to maintain adequate altitude during the final approach phase. This error led directly to the wing strike and subsequent loss of control. All three individuals on board were killed in the resulting fire.
Probable cause
The crew failed to maintain sufficient altitude during final approach, causing a wing strike with a tree that resulted in a stall and crash.
What happened in the 18 Nov 1942 Douglas DC-3 accident near Wright-Patterson AFB (Dayton), United States of America?
A cargo aircraft crashed into trees and burst into flames while on final approach to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, resulting in the deaths of all three crew members.
Were there any fatalities in the 18 Nov 1942 Douglas DC-3 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Nov 1942 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration NC16064, operated by United Airlines, at Wright-Patterson AFB (Dayton), United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The crew failed to maintain sufficient altitude during final approach, causing a wing strike with a tree that resulted in a stall and crash.
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