What happened
A flight operated by the Crane Company was traveling from O'Hare-Chicago International Airport to Louisville, Kentucky, to transport six company executives to a convention. The crew consisted of the chief pilot and a co-pilot. While the flight was initially filed under VFR, it was transitioned to IFR during the journey. At the time of departure, the aircraft'<0xC2>s weight was approximately 27,360 pounds, which was within the maximum takeoff limit of 31,000 pounds.
After departing Chicago, the pilot provided routine radio updates, including a status report at 0908. The final communication from the aircraft occurred at 1034 while positioned over the Jeffersonville intersection. Following this contact, the crew began an approach toward Standiford Airport, located roughly 6 to 9 miles away. During this descent, the aircraft type struck trees approximately one-half mile north of the Jeffersonville intersection. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the plane and eight fatalities.
Findings
Investigation into the accident identified that the aircraft suffered a complete loss of power from the left engine. This failure was specifically attributed to a disconnected carburetor control, which caused the left propeller to windmill rather than feather. The resulting drag made it impossible for the crew to maintain sufficient altitude. Additionally, investigators noted that the pilot had limited experience operating this specific model.