On February 10, 1953, a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar (registration 50-0127) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Bitburg AFB, Germany during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck trees due to a low altitude during an approach in poor weather conditions. 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.
An aircraft crashed into a forested area north of Bitburg Air Force Base during its approach, resulting in the deaths of all five crew members.
What happened
During an approach to Bitburg Air Force Base, the flight crew encountered adverse weather conditions characterized by falling snow. While navigating through these low-visibility conditions, the aircraft descended too low and struck the tops of trees. The impact occurred within a heavily wooded region situated approximately 24 km north of the airbase.
All five crew members on board were killed in the accident.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the aircraft flying at an insufficient altitude while navigating through snowy weather conditions.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck trees due to a low altitude during an approach in poor weather conditions.
What happened in the 10 Feb 1953 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident near Bitburg AFB, Germany?
An aircraft crashed into a forested area north of Bitburg Air Force Base during its approach, resulting in the deaths of all five crew members.
Were there any fatalities in the 10 Feb 1953 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Feb 1953 involved a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar, registration 50-0127, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Bitburg AFB, Germany.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft struck trees due to a low altitude during an approach in poor weather conditions.
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