Junkers JU.52 accident at Tabarz, Germany, 1 Nov 1936 (D-APOO)
On November 1, 1936, a Junkers JU.52 (registration D-APOO) operated by Deutsche Lufthansa was involved in an aviation accident near Tabarz, Germany in flight. 11 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed that the pilot lost his bearings while flying in heavy fog, resulting in either a controlled flight into terrain or an uncontrolled descent into the ground. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
It is believed that the pilot lost his bearings while flying in heavy fog, resulting in either a controlled flight into terrain or an uncontrolled descent into the ground.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
While approaching Erfurt from the west, the pilot encountered poor weather conditions and low visibility due to fog. The three engine aircraft was flying too low when its impacted trees and crashed in a wooded area located near Tabarz, bursting into flames. The wreckage was found about 38 km southwest of Erfurt. Four passengers were injured and 11 other occupants were killed. The aircraft named 'Heinrich Kroll' was destroyed by impact forces and a post crash fire.
Probable cause (official findings): It is believed that the pilot lost his bearings while flying in heavy fog, resulting in either a controlled flight into terrain or an uncontrolled descent into the ground.