Accident Summary
On a night mail flight, the pilot encountered poor weather conditions. Subsequently, both engines stopped simultaneously. The pilot attempted an emergency landing but lost control, and the airplane crashed on a 40° slope mountain. Search and rescue operations were conducted but were suspended a few days later when no trace of the aircraft or the pilot was found.
Discovery of Wreckage
Mountaineers discovered the wreckage on March 21, 1969, near Imnaha.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation identified the probable cause of the accident as a combination of factors: inadequate preflight preparation on the part of the pilot; fuel system vents, drains, and tank caps improperly secured; fuel exhaustion; complete failure of both engines in flight; and fuel siphoned from a loose cap.