5. The aircraft descended to a low altitude while rotating to Florence, struck two large trees and crashed.
6. Two hand. fire extinguishers had been used in flight without success.
7. No evidence was found to indicate mechanical failure of any part of the aircraft, engines, or accessories prior to the crash other than caused by fire.
8. No evidence was found to indicate negligence on the part of the company or crew.
Probable Cause
The Board determines that the probable cause of this accident was fire of undetermined genesis in the rear cargo compartment or lavatory which resulted in the inability of the pilot to maintain altitude long enough to effect a landing.
Conclusion
On tho basis of investigation of this accident and the available records of fire in flight the Board concludes that:
1. All DC-3 passenger equipment is not provided with adequate access to the baggage compartment from the cabin.
2. Maximum safety in flight requires the installation of fire detecting equipment in the cargo compartments.
3. The use of paper lunch and lavatory accessories in flight constitutes a fire hazard.
4. Further emphasis must be placed in aircraft design on the use of non-combustible materials in cabin lining, sound-proofing, and waste containers.
5. Carbon dioxide firs extinguishers are not adequate for all types of fire.
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