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Rh certificate with an instrument rating, and was properly qualified as a second pilot in scheduled air carrier operation. He had been employed by Northwest since June, 1941, and had a total of approximately 1246 hours flying time, about 1050 of which were with Northwest on DC-3 equipment. His last physical examination required by the Civil Air Regulations was taken on June 4, 1942. His rest period prior to departure from Billings was approximately 21 hours.

Both Captain DeLong and First Officer Finholt were physically qualified and held proper certificates and ratings for the flight involved.

Bernice Bertelson, stewardess, and the third member of the crew, had flown approximately 2060 hours as a stewardess.

History of the Flight

Northwest's Trip 2 of August 29, 1942, originated at Seattle, Washington, with Chicago, Illinois, as its destination. Several intermediate stops were scheduled, including Spokane, Washington, and Missoula, Butte, and Billings, Montana. Trip 2 arrived at Billings 30 minutes behind schedule, due to a delay in handling cargo. Captain DeLong, First Officer Finholt, and Stewardess Bernice Bertelson took over as the flight crew at this point. The flight departed Billings at 3:00 p.m. (MWT) and arrived at Miles City at about 3:55 p.m. Departure from Miles City for Bismarck was made at 4:00 p.m. with Fargo, North Dakota as an alternate. There were 420 gallons of fuel on board. The flight was made under contact conditions at 9,000 feet until time for descent to the Bismarck Airport. At approximately 6:20, when in the vicinity of the Judson marker, about 25 miles nearest of Bismarck, the trip was informed that Bismarck was overcast, ceiling 3500, visibility 1 3/4 miles, light thunderstorms, and light rainshowers. The Northwest radio operator advised Trip 2 that the storm