Reeder Flying Service

Douglas A-26 Invader

The pilot, sole on board, was preparing for a local fire fighting mission. While taxiing on the apron, the Invader collided with a private Beechcraft M24R registered N2529W with one pilot on board. Following the collision, both aircraft caught fire and were destroyed. The pilot on board the Beechcraft was killed instantly while the pilot on board the Invader was seriously injured. He died three days later from his injuries.

Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3)

At liftoff at McGrath Airport, the airplane went out of control, collided with trees and crashed in flames. A crew member and four passengers were killed while several others were seriously injured. The aircraft was engaged in a fire control activity between McGrath and Galena when the accident occurred.