2 fatalities

1977-07-18: Douglas DC-3 (N459) — Private United States of America — Ardoch, United States of America

Ardoch, United States of AmericaFlight

On July 18, 1977, a Douglas DC-3 (registration N459) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near Ardoch, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stall during turnaround while the crew was flying into blind canyon. The following contributing factors were reported: - inadequate preflight preparation, - Improper in-flight decisions, - Failed to maintain flying speed, - Hilly terrain. 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 1781227784Data APIEditorial standards

While turning at low altitude during a grasshopper control mission, the aircraft stalled, spiraled, and crashed in flames. Both occupants died. Investigators cited a stall while flying into a blind canyon, inadequate preflight preparation, improper decisions, and failure to maintain speed.

Accident Overview

The crew was conducting a crop spraying operation targeting grasshoppers in the vicinity of Sheridan. During the flight at a relatively low altitude, the aircraft executed a 45-degree turn. It subsequently stalled, entered a spiral, and crashed, resulting in a fire. Both individuals on board were killed.

Circumstances

The accident occurred while the aircraft was engaged in a grasshopper control mission in the Sheridan area. The flight was performed at a low altitude, and the turn was initiated as part of the spraying operation. After stalling, the aircraft lost control and spiraled downward before impact.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a stall that occurred during the turnaround while the crew was flying into a blind canyon. Contributing factors identified by investigators included inadequate preflight preparation, improper in-flight decisions, failure to maintain flying speed, and the presence of hilly terrain. No additional details about the aircraft or crew were provided in the report.