Lockheed C-60 LodeStar accident at Algiers, Algeria, 30 Dec 1944 (FC-BAD)
On December 30, 1944, a Lockheed C-60 LodeStar (registration FC-BAD) operated by Transport Aérien Militaire (TAM) was involved in an aviation accident near Algiers, Algeria during takeoff. 12 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the accident was not clearly determined. However, the assumption that the loss of control should be caused by sabotage has not been ruled out. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Probable cause
The exact cause of the accident was not clearly determined. However, the assumption that the loss of control should be caused by sabotage has not been ruled out.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
Few minutes after take off from Algiers Airport, the twin engine aircraft went out of control and crashed into the Mediterranean Sea. All 12 occupants were killed, among them the French Colonel Lionel de Marmier, faithful Officer of the General de Gaulle. He was flying back to Paris to take over the top management of Air France. Crew: Robert Guilloux, pilot, Roger Henry, radio navigator, Emile Guillot, flight engineer. Passengers: Col Lionel de Marmier, Marcel Duclos.
Probable cause (official findings): The exact cause of the accident was not clearly determined. However, the assumption that the loss of control should be caused by sabotage has not been ruled out.