Nighttime crash during diversion to Philadelphia-Northeast Airfield

3 fatalities • Northeast Philadelphia, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A flight diverted due to heavy fog ended in a fatal accident in a swampy area near Philadelphia after an unsuccessful approach.

What happened

While traveling toward Mitchel AFB on Long Island, the flight crew encountered deteriorating weather conditions that necessitated a diversion to LaGuardia Airport. Upon reaching LaGuardia, the crew determined that landing was not possible because of dense fog. Consequently, the decision was made to proceed to Philadelphia-Northeast Airfield.

During the night approach at the secondary destination, the aircraft struck a swampy area approximately one mile before reaching the runway. The impact resulted in three fatalities among the crew members. All three passengers on board were successfully rescued from the wreckage.

Probable cause

The aircraft crashed into a swamp during a night approach following multiple diversions caused by poor visibility.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1952-10-07 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Northeast Philadelphia, United States of America?

A flight diverted due to heavy fog ended in a fatal accident in a swampy area near Philadelphia after an unsuccessful approach.

Were there any fatalities in the 1952-10-07 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1952-10-07 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 43-48870, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Northeast Philadelphia, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft crashed into a swamp during a night approach following multiple diversions caused by poor visibility.

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