Background
A C-119 aircraft departed from Kodiak, Alaska, bound for Elmendorf Air Force Base, as part of the 'Warmwind' military exercise. The flight was uneventful until the aircraft vanished en route under unclear circumstances.
Disappearance and Search
When the aircraft failed to arrive at Elmendorf AFB, extensive search and rescue (SAR) operations were initiated. Despite a month-long effort, no trace of the aircraft or its 20 occupants was found, leading to the suspension of operations.
Probable Cause
The official investigation stated that in the absence of evidence, the cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty. However, it is believed that the aircraft was off course at the time of the accident, apparently following issues with radio frequencies between two stations.
Aftermath
This incident occurred shortly after two other accidents involving C-119 aircraft in the same period. In response, the US government reclaimed funds to modernize the air traffic control infrastructure in Alaska and to equip the area with VHF beacons.