19 fatalities

Crew Returning from Airshow Crashes Near Payette (55-4521)

Payette, United States of AmericaFlight

On October 9, 1958, a Fairchild C-123 Provider (registration 55-4521) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Payette, United States of America in flight. 19 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of an in-flight collision with a flock of birds, maybe goose. 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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane returning to McChord from an airshow at Ogden-Hill AFB crashed in a field east of Payette, killing all 19 occupants after a loss of control believed to be caused by a bird strike.

Incident

An airplane conducting a return flight to McChord Air Force Base after supporting the Thunderbirds demonstration team at Ogden-Hill Air Force Base lost control while at cruising altitude. The aircraft dove into the ground and crashed in a field located seven miles east of Payette. The impact destroyed the airplane.

Aircraft and Occupants

The airplane carried 19 occupants, including two civilians. All 19 were killed in the crash. No further details about the aircraft type or registration were provided in the source.

Investigation

Investigators determined the probable cause of the accident. According to the official findings, the loss of control was believed to be the consequence of an in-flight collision with a flock of birds, possibly geese.