Monroe County Mosquito Control District

Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3)

The flight (a Monroe County Mosquito Control operation) began at about 1740 edt to conduct low altitude spraying. When it did not return, a search was initiated. At about 0245, the aircraft was found in a remote area on water key near the town of Summerland Key, FL. Evidence at the accident scene suggested the aircraft struck 40 feet high mangrove trees with the left wing as the pilots were making a procedure turn to start another spray run. No preimpact failure or malfunction of the aircraft or engines was found. There were no known witnesses, but the accident was estimated to have occurred at about 2030 edt. Sunset was at 1952 edt. About 22 miles southwest at Key West, the 1750 weather was in part: 1,500 feet scat, 10 miles visibility, wind from 330° at 10 knots. Aprx 85 miles north-northeast, the wind was from 100° at 11 knots. Both pilots were killed.

Beechcraft C18S

Shortly after takeoff from Marathon Airport, while in initiale climb, both engines failed simultaneously. The aircraft stalled and crashed into the sea few dozen yards off shore. The pilot was uninjured and quickly rescued while the airplane was lost.