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or minus 50 foot." However, this was slightly before the collision and they were still climbing. There were no barograph records available from either flight, therefore, the exact altitude at which the collision occurred could not be definitely determined, but after consideration of all of the known discrepancies, it appears that it was between 3500 and 3900 feet.
The altimeter of both the DC3 and the C-53 were calibrated after the subject flights and found to have been functioning normally.
Weather Conditions
The U. S. Weather Bureau report, 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon, at Kansas City, was: Overcast with lower broken clouds, ceiling 2650 feet to 2750 feet (above sea level).
The wind from Columbia to Kansas City at 2000 feet was 40–45 m.p.h. SSE (174°); at 4000 feet it was 40–45 m.p.h. S to SSW (203°). The difference in wind direction from Columbia to Kansas City at 2000 feet and at 4000 feet would account for the C-53 flight being approximately 7 minutes late on arrival at Kansas City.
Examination of the Wreckage
The DC3 was extensively damaged. Both wings were practically demolished; both propellers were badly damaged; the tail surfaces were totally wrecked; and the fuselage was broken completely in two at a point even with the front side of the main cabin door. Both engines were damaged to a major extent.
The C-53 received major damage when the right wing has severed in the air about 1/3 of the way inboard from the tip.
Conduct of the Flights
The Army C-53 was properly dispatched, and on course, although about 7 minutes behind its estimated arrival time over its fix at Kansas City. The TWA DC3 took off with proper clearance and proceeded according to instructions.
