Narrative:The DC-3 lost directional control on takeoff, struck a tree and caught fire. The pilot didn't have a type certificate and had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0,15% and attempted a flight without a co-pilot.
Probable Cause:
PROBABLE CAUSE:
pilot in command - failed to maintain directional control
pilot in command - failed to abort takeoff
pilot in command - physical impairment
miscellaneous acts,conditions - alcoholic impairment of efficiency and judgment
FACTOR:
miscellaneous - unqualified person operated aircraft
Sources:
» NTSB
Photos

accident date:
01-08-1980type: Douglas R4D-5 (DC-3)
registration: N45864

accident date:
01-08-1980type: Douglas R4D-5 (DC-3)
registration: N45864

accident date:
01-08-1980type: Douglas R4D-5 (DC-3)
registration: N45864

accident date:
01-08-1980type: Douglas R4D-5 (DC-3)
registration: N45864

accident date:
01-08-1980type: Douglas R4D-5 (DC-3)
registration: N45864

accident date:
01-08-1980type: Douglas R4D-5 (DC-3)
registration: N45864

accident date:
01-08-1980type: Douglas R4D-5 (DC-3)
registration: N45864
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 New Smyrna Beach Municipal Airport, FL to Aruba-Reina Beatrix Airport as the crow flies is 2147 km (1342 miles).
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.