Pan Am Flight 202, a Douglas DC-4, took off from New York City on an international flight that was set to reach Rio de Janeiro. The aircraft was carrying 50 individuals, comprised of passengers and crew. As the plane approached Brazil, it faced increasingly adverse weather, including thunderstorms that created treacherous flying conditions. Despite efforts by the flight crew to navigate through the worsening storm, the aircraft lost altitude and ultimately crashed into the dense Amazon rainforest near the small city of Carolina in Maranhão. The impact of the crash took a heavy toll, claiming all 50 lives onboard.

The challenging terrain and the remote location of the crash site posed significant challenges for rescue and recovery efforts. Search and rescue teams faced difficulties in penetrating the thick jungle, which delayed their ability to reach the wreckage and recover bodies. The lack of immediate information about the accident resulted in widespread concern for the families of those onboard, as the news of the tragedy unfolded. Investigators would later focus on the weather conditions and whether there had been any mechanical failure contributing to the crash.

In the aftermath, Pan Am and aviation authorities conducted inquiries into the incident. It raised questions about weather protocols for flying through severe conditions and highlighted the need for improved navigation instruments and procedures for commercial flights operating in such challenging environments. The tragedy impacted policies related to airline safety and contributed to advancements in flight technology and training regulations.