Narrative:The C-82A Packet transport plane was part of a seven plane convoy travelling from El Paso-Biggs AAF, TX (BIF) to Valparaiso-Eglin AFB, FL (VPS).
The pilot decided to carry out an emergency landing when one engine lost power. The pilot brought the aircraft down in a clearing avoiding scattered trees but ploughed through a farm fence. It slid to a stop right side up. There was no fire but a portion of the fuselage was caved in which caused the deaths of four occupants and severely injured a fifth.
Sources:
»
Fairchild C-82 Packet website / Simon Beck» The Evening Independent 18 October 1948, p16
Photos
Map
This map shows the airport of departure and the intended destination of the flight. The line between the airports does
not display the exact flight path.
Distance from El Paso-Biggs AAF, TX to Valparaiso-Eglin AFB, FL as the crow flies is 1880 km (1175 miles).
Accident location: Approximate; accuracy within a few kilometers.
This information is not presented as the Flight Safety Foundation or the Aviation Safety Network’s opinion as to the cause of the accident. It is preliminary and is based on the facts as they are known at this time.