Aircraft loss during landing attempt at Byrd Station

No fatalities • Byrd Station, Antarctica • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft was destroyed after crashing during an approach to Byrd Station due to severe weather conditions.

What happened

During a scheduled supply mission, an aircraft encountered extreme weather while attempting to land at Byrd Station. The flight was operating in heavy whiteout conditions, which significantly obscured visibility for the crew. During the landing phase of the operation, the aircraft struck the ground and was subsequently destroyed.

There were no fatalities or injuries reported among the occupants following the impact. While the crew survived the event, the aircraft was declared a total loss and written off by the operators.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was the presence of whiteout conditions during the approach to the airfield.

Probable cause

The crash was caused by extremely low visibility resulting from whiteout weather conditions during the landing attempt.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1960-01-06 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Byrd Station, Antarctica?

An aircraft was destroyed after crashing during an approach to Byrd Station due to severe weather conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 1960-01-06 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1960-01-06 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 17154, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Byrd Station, Antarctica.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crash was caused by extremely low visibility resulting from whiteout weather conditions during the landing attempt.

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