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Today in History: Air Force CT-43 Crash Kills 35, Including Ron Brown

4/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On April 3, 1996, a U.S. Air Force CT-43A crashed into a mountainside while approaching Dubrovnik Airport, Croatia. The aircraft, carrying Secretary of Commerce Ron Brown and 34 others, was on an official trade mission. All aboard perished, except one who died en route to the hospital, marking a tragic event in U.S. aviation history.

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Story summary

On April 3, 1996, a U.S. Air Force CT-43A crashed into a mountainside while approaching Dubrovnik Airport, Croatia. The aircraft, carrying Secretary of Commerce Ron Brown and 34 others, was on an official trade mission. All aboard perished, except one who died en route to the hospital, marking a tragic event in U.S. aviation history.