Douglas DC-3 accident at Cháparra, Peru, 22 Jan 1943 (NC33645)
On January 22, 1943, a Douglas DC-3 (registration NC33645) operated by Panagra - Pan American-Grace Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Cháparra, Peru in flight. 14 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Action of the pilot in continuing the flight on instruments in the overcast, contrary to company flight procedure of which, according to the evidence, the pilot was aware. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Probable cause
Action of the pilot in continuing the flight on instruments in the overcast, contrary to company flight procedure of which, according to the evidence, the pilot was aware. The following contributing factors were identified: - Absence of adequate flight dispatch control by the company, - Failure of the company to inaugurate and maintain written flight and operating procedures in such a form as to be constantly available for the guidance of pilots and dispatchers.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
Fifty-five minutes after its departure from Arequipa Airport, while cruising at an altitude of 13,000 feet in marginal weather conditions, the airplane impacted the slope of a mountain located near Cháparra. Extensive emergency resources were dispatched to the scene where a seriously injured passenger was evacuated while 14 other occupants were killed. Crew: Gordon W. Gardner, pilot, Robert W. Turbyne, copilot, James T. Ewing, radio operator, Jorge Alvarez, purser.
Probable cause (official findings): Action of the pilot in continuing the flight on instruments in the overcast, contrary to company flight procedure of which, according to the evidence, the pilot was aware. The following contributing factors were identified: - Absence of adequate flight dispatch control by the company, - Failure of the company to inaugurate and maintain written flight and operating procedures in such a form as to be constantly available for the guidance of pilots and dispatchers.