1 fatality

1978-11-03: Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain (N59912) — Eastern Caribbean Airways — Charlotte Amalie-Cyril E. King (ex Harry S. Truman), US Virgin Islands

Charlotte Amalie-Cyril E. King (ex Harry S. Truman), US Virgin IslandsLanding (descent or approach)

On November 3, 1978, a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain (registration N59912) operated by Eastern Caribbean Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Charlotte Amalie-Cyril E. King (ex Harry S. Truman), US Virgin Islands during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Due to lack of evidences as the wreckage was not found, the exact cause of the accident could to be determined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 9 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781225949Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo aircraft on approach to Charlotte Amalie Airport lost control and crashed into the sea. Search and rescue operations were later abandoned after no trace of the aircraft or pilot was found.

Accident

A cargo aircraft was on a flight from Christiansted to Charlotte Amalie Airport. While approaching the airport, it went out of control and crashed into the sea several kilometers offshore.

Search and Rescue

Search and rescue operations were initiated after the crash. These efforts continued for several days. Eventually, the search was abandoned because no trace of the aircraft or the pilot was found.

Investigation

An investigation was conducted. Due to the lack of physical evidence, as the wreckage was not discovered, the exact cause of the accident could not be determined.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause stated: "Due to lack of evidences as the wreckage was not found, the exact cause of the accident could to be determined."