No fatalities

1977-03-17: Douglas DC-3 (N101MX) — Private United States of America — LaBelle, United States of America

LaBelle, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 17, 1977, a Douglas DC-3 (registration N101MX) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near LaBelle, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot attempted to land on soft, unprepared ground while conducting an unauthorized flight mission. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781228231Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed during an unauthorized landing on soft ground near LaBelle, Florida, resulting in the disappearance of the pilot.

What happened

During an unauthorized flight operation, a single-occupant aircraft attempted to land on unpaved and unsuitable terrain situated in the vicinity of Laﻟe Belle, Florida. As the aircraft made contact with the soft ground, the nose of the plane dipped downward, causing the vehicle to come to a halt.

Following the incident, authorities discovered a significant quantity of narcotics, specifically 4,000 lbs of marijuana, inside the wreckage. While the aircraft was located, the pilot remained missing following the crash.

Findings

Investigations into the event concluded that the primary factor leading to the accident was the decision to perform a landing on unsuitable terrain during the course of an illegal flight operation.

Probable cause

The pilot attempted to land on soft, unprepared ground while conducting an unauthorized flight mission.