Ansett-ANA Flight 149 was a scheduled passenger flight operating between Sydney and Cairns in Australia. On its ill-fated journey, the Douglas DC-8 aircraft encountered severe weather conditions as it neared Winton, a small town in Queensland. The flight departed from Kingsford Smith International Airport in Sydney with 24 people onboard, including passengers and crew members. As the plane approached its destination, it was subjected to heavy rain and strong winds, which severely limited visibility and posed significant challenges for the pilots. Unfortunately, the aircraft lost altitude and made contact with trees and terrain just a few kilometers from the Winton airport.

The crash occurred on a rural property, igniting a recovery operation that involved local authorities and emergency services. Tragically, all 24 individuals aboard did not survive the impact. The accident raised serious concerns regarding aviation safety and weather preparedness in Australia during the 1960s. Witnesses reported hearing the crash and seeing smoke billowing, leading to immediate fears regarding the fate of those onboard.

In the aftermath of the disaster, investigations were initiated to determine the underlying causes of the accident. The findings prompted discussions around regulations for flight safety, adverse weather conditions, and the technology available to pilots when dealing with such scenarios. The crash highlighted the vulnerability of air travel, particularly in regions experiencing unpredictable weather changes.