On April 22, 1947, a Douglas DC-3 (registration NC49657) operated by Delta Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Columbus, United States of America during landing or approach. 8 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by the pilot of the Vultee BT-13 failing to maintain a standard left-hand traffic pattern and neglecting to keep a vigilant lookout for other air traffic. 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.
A Douglas DC-3 collided with a private Vultee BT-13 registered NC55312 during final approach to runway 05. Both aircraft crashed into the ground, resulting in the deaths of all nine occupants.
What happened
The incident occurred while a Douglas DC-3 was on final approach to runway 05. At an altitude of approximately 10 feet, the transport aircraft collided with a private Vultee BT-13 bearing the registration NC55312. The smaller aircraft was carrying a single pilot at the time of the impact.
Following the mid-air collision, both airframes climbed to a height of roughly 150 feet before stalling. They subsequently descended and impacted the ground, where they were destroyed in a significant explosion. All nine occupants across the two aircraft lost their lives in the crash.
Probable cause
The accident was caused by the pilot of the Vultee BT-13 failing to maintain a standard left-hand traffic pattern and neglecting to keep a vigilant lookout for other air traffic.
What happened in the 22 Apr 1947 Douglas DC-3 accident near Columbus, United States of America?
A Douglas DC-3 collided with a private Vultee BT-13 registered NC55312 during final approach to runway 05. Both aircraft crashed into the ground, resulting in the deaths of all nine occupants.
Were there any fatalities in the 22 Apr 1947 Douglas DC-3 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 8 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Apr 1947 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration NC49657, operated by Delta Airlines, at Columbus, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The accident was caused by the pilot of the Vultee BT-13 failing to maintain a standard left-hand traffic pattern and neglecting to keep a vigilant lookout for other air traffic.
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