King Airways Statement - Major Aircraft Crash at Los Angeles International

[KingAirways]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA — February 26, 1952

King Airways (KAW) deeply regrets to confirm that one of its Lockheed 649A Constellation aircraft, reg. no. N291CE, was involved today in the serious accident which occurred at Los Angeles Airport.

Information presently available to the Company remains incomplete, and we believe it would be improper to speculate upon the precise circumstances of the occurrence while airport and civil aviation authorities are conducting their inquiries. Preliminary reports indicate that the accident occurred during landing operations and involved another aircraft awaiting clearance for departure.

At this time, there is no indication that King Airways's flight crew was responsible for the accident, and the aircraft was being operated in the normal course of scheduled service under established air traffic procedures. King Airways is cooperating fully with the authorities and will make available all records, personnel and technical information required for a complete investigation.

Our first concern is for the passengers, crew members and all others who may have been affected. To their families and loved ones, the officers and employees of King Airways extend their deepest sympathy and sincere concern. Until official information concerning casualties has been received and next of kin have been notified, King Airways will not issue names or unconfirmed reports.

Los Angeles International Airport is expected to remain closed for a considerable period while emergency operations and the investigation continue. As a consequence, delays, cancellations and diversions to King Airway's Los Angeles International Airport based services may be necessary. Every possible effort is being made to assist passengers and to restore normal operations as soon as conditions permit.

A further statement will be issued when reliable information becomes available.

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