While flying to Bettles Airport by night and moderate turbulences, the airplane went out of control and crashed in an isolated area located in Old Man's Camp, about 31 miles southeast of Bettles Airport. The aircraft was totally destroyed and all four crew members were killed. They were completing a cargo flight from Fairbanks to Dietrich Camp with an intermediate stop in Bettles, carrying a load of 6,800 gallons of fuel.
Probable cause (official findings): In-flight airframe failure following inadequate maintenance and inspection. The following contributing factors were reported: - Engine structure, - Separation in flight, - Fatigue-fastener holes in lower hat section, - Skin panels, n°3 engine compressor diffuser case, - Right wing separated.