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Left Engine Failure During Takeoff Results in Crash Due to Severe Overweight Condition (N39DT)

Laredo, TX, US

On July 29, 1987, a Douglas DC-3A (registration N39DT) operated by Ferreteria E.implementos was involved in an aviation accident near Laredo, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to take off with the aircraft loaded beyond its maximum allowable gross weight, which resulted in an inability to maintain airspeed and control after a left engine failure during initial climb. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

Aircraft departed well beyond maximum gross weight limits, leading to left engine failure during climb. The pilot could not maintain airspeed or control, resulting in a stall and collision with terrain alongside the runway.

What happened

The accident occurred during the initial climb phase immediately after liftoff. The aircraft experienced a failure of the left engine at this critical stage of flight. Due to the aircraft being loaded significantly beyond its maximum allowable takeoff gross weight—specifically 3,809 pounds over the limit—the pilot was unable to maintain adequate airspeed with one engine inoperative. The aircraft was climbing slowly just above the surface when the failure occurred.

An emergency landing attempt was initiated; however, directional control could not be maintained. The aircraft subsequently entered a stall or mush condition and collided with the terrain alongside the runway.

The investigation

Following the accident, the left engine was examined for mechanical issues. The inspection revealed no malfunctions or failures within the engine itself that would account for the loss of power. The primary contributing factor was identified as the excessive weight of the aircraft at departure.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to take off with the aircraft loaded beyond its maximum allowable gross weight, which resulted in an inability to maintain airspeed and control after a left engine failure during initial climb.
Engine failureLoss of control in flight

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31530. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.