3 fatalities

1967-01-31: Douglas DC-6 (N640NA) — Saturn Airways — San Antonio, United States of America

San Antonio, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On January 31, 1967, a Douglas DC-6 (registration N640NA) operated by Saturn Airways was involved in an aviation accident near San Antonio, United States of America during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the accident was not determined. 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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781240370Data APIEditorial standards

While descending to Kelly AFB, a cargo flight diverted to San Antonio International Airport for unknown reasons. On a night approach, the pilot-in-command failed to maintain altitude, struck trees, stalled, and crashed in a cleef. All three crew members were killed.

Flight Details

The accident flight was a cargo operation conducted under subcontract for the United States Air Force. The intended destination was Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. While descending to Kelly AFB, the crew decided to divert to San Antonio International Airport. The reason for this diversion was not determined by investigators.

Accident Sequence

The aircraft was conducting a night approach to San Antonio International Airport. During the approach, the pilot-in-command failed to realize that the aircraft's altitude was too low. The airplane subsequently struck trees, stalled, and crashed in a cleef. At the moment of the accident, the aircraft was 1,100 feet below the prescribed glide path.

Aftermath

The impact destroyed the aircraft. All three crew members on board were killed in the crash.

Investigative Findings

The official accident investigation determined that the cause of the accident was not determined.

Probable cause

The cause of the accident was not determined.