Lockheed 10 Electra accident at Mt Ruapehu, New Zealand, 23 Oct 1948 (ZK-AGK)
On October 23, 1948, a Lockheed 10 Electra (registration ZK-AGK) operated by New Zealand National Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Mt Ruapehu, New Zealand in flight. 13 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the crew to take the appropriate measures to follow the correct track. However, strong winds and the lack of radio navigational beacon was considered as a contributory factor. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
Failure of the crew to take the appropriate measures to follow the correct track. However, strong winds and the lack of radio navigational beacon was considered as a contributory factor.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
En route, the crew encountered marginal weather conditions with strong winds and rain showers. In low visibility, the aircraft christened 'Kaka' hit the slope of Mt Ruapehu and disintegrated on impact, killing all 13 occupants. The aircraft was off course at the time of the accident.
Probable cause (official findings): Failure of the crew to take the appropriate measures to follow the correct track. However, strong winds and the lack of radio navigational beacon was considered as a contributory factor.