This CNAC aircraft was enroute from Kunming, China to Dinjan, India on 17 Nov 1942. It was on a routine mission over the Hump back to its homebase.
The aircraft was loaded with tin billets in Kunming for transport to India. Kunming tower notified pilot that there was an incoming attack by Japanese aircraft, and pilot should quickly depart to prevent his aircraft from being destroyed or damaged in the impending attack. The aircraft hurriedly departed Kunming before the cargo of tin billets could be completely secured.
On Able route, about 1 hr. out from Kunming and slightly SE of Likiang, the aircraft was already icing badly. Pilot, John Dean, radioed Kunming-bound CNAC pilot Robbie Robertson that #60 was icing badly and asked Robertson about weather on the more southerly Charlie route that Robertson had just flown. Robertson replied he experienced no icing on Charlie route and saw no Japanese aircraft. This was the last known radio contact with #60.
The aircraft did not arrive in Dinjan and was reported as Missing in Flight. No trace of this aircraft or its crew has been found. Dead: 3.
- Pilot: John J. Dean
- Co-Pilot: James S. Browne
- Radio Operator: K.L. Yang
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C-47DL #41-18556 a.k.a. CNAC #60 Photo Gallery
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