American Airlines Flight 320, a Douglas DC-6, was operating a scheduled flight from North Carolina to New York City on a foggy night in February. As the aircraft made its descent towards LaGuardia Airport, it encountered adverse weather conditions including low visibility and strong winds. Just as the flight was nearing the runway, the airplane crashed into the East River, resulting in an immediate catastrophe. 65 of the 73 passengers and crew aboard lost their lives, making it one of the deadliest aviation accidents in the early years of commercial air travel.

The recovery operation initiated by local authorities involved extensive searches of the East River, with rescue teams employing boats and helicopters to locate survivors and retrieve bodies. The tragic crash led to widespread media coverage and prompted investigations into the causes of the accident. Flight crews and air traffic control protocols were scrutinized, leading to a broader discussion about aviation safety standards that would have long-term implications for the industry.

Investigators found that factors such as pilot error, poor weather conditions, and possible malfunctioning equipment contributed to the crash. The findings of the investigation spurred changes in operational protocols, enhancing pilot training and contributing to the development of modern air traffic control systems. This tragic incident set the stage for future regulations aimed at improving aviation safety throughout the industry.