Flagship Airlines Flight 3379 was a regional flight that operated between the Tri-Cities of Tennessee and the Raleigh-Durham area. On its final leg, the aircraft, a Fairchild Metroliner, was approaching Raleigh–Durham International Airport amid adverse weather conditions, including heavy rain and low visibility. As the flight descended, it became increasingly clear that the crew was encountering challenges in navigating through the rapidly changing weather. Communication with air traffic control indicated that the flight was struggling to maintain its glide path.

The airplane ultimately crashed into a wooded area in Morrisville, only about two miles from the intended runway. All 15 passengers and crew members aboard tragically perished in the crash. Rescue efforts were swift but challenging due to the wreckage's location and the weather. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) were dispatched to the scene to understand the circumstances leading to the crash and to ensure that such a tragedy could be avoided in the future.

The NTSB investigation revealed that the pilots did not adequately respond to the deteriorating conditions and were unable to execute the necessary recovery procedures. Their findings led to enhanced training requirements for pilots flying in adverse weather conditions, as well as tighter regulations regarding operations during challenging weather scenarios. This incident stands as a somber reminder of the risks associated with aviation and the importance of pilot preparedness and strict adherence to safety protocols.