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2 fatalities

Airplane Crashes on Approach to Altus Airport; Two Killed (N979L)

Altus, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On October 24, 1974, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration N979L) operated by Altus Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Altus, United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled collision with ground on final approach following improper IFR operation. Contributing factors: Instruments misread or failed to read, poorly planned approach, fog, low ceiling, rain, ATC failed to provide radar vectoring as requested, pilot… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

While descending to Altus Airport in poor weather, the airplane struck the ground short of the runway, killing two passengers and injuring the pilot and another occupant.

Accident Details

The aircraft was on approach to Altus Airport when it encountered poor weather conditions including fog, low ceiling, and rain showers. While approaching at an insufficient altitude, the airplane struck the ground and crashed a few miles from the runway threshold. Two passengers were killed, and two other occupants—including the pilot—were injured.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a controlled collision with ground on final approach following improper IFR operation. Contributing factors reported include: instruments misread or failed to read, poorly planned approach, fog, low ceiling, rain, ATC failed to provide radar vectoring as requested, and the pilot descended below MDA.

Controlled flight into terrain

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Oct 1974 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident near Altus, United States of America?

While descending to Altus Airport in poor weather, the airplane struck the ground short of the runway, killing two passengers and injuring the pilot and another occupant.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Oct 1974 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Oct 1974 involved a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo, registration N979L, operated by Altus Airlines, at Altus, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Controlled collision with ground on final approach following improper IFR operation. Contributing factors: Instruments misread or failed to read, poorly planned approach, fog, low ceiling, rain, ATC failed to provide radar vectoring as requested, pilot descended below MDA.

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