No fatalities

Emergency landing following in-flight fire near Zamora (N640PH)

Zamora, MexicoFlight

On April 24, 1978, a Beechcraft 65 Queen Air (registration N640PH) operated by Larry Johnson Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Zamora, Mexico in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact origin of the in-flight fire remains undetermined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft performed an emergency descent and crash landing near Zamora after experiencing an onboard fire during flight.

What happened

During a recent flight, a twin engine airplane experienced an unexpected fire while still in the air. The cause of the combustion has not yet been determined. In response to the developing situation, the pilot initiated an emergency descent to find a suitable landing site.

While attempting to reach the ground safely near Zamora, the aircraft made contact with a fence during the landing sequence. The impact resulted in a crash landing at the scene.

Injuries

There were three people on board the aircraft at the time of the incident. All three occupants sustained injuries during the crash. Among those involved, both passengers were reported to have suffered serious injuries.

Probable cause

The exact origin of the in-flight fire remains undetermined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Apr 1978 Beechcraft 65 Queen Air accident near Zamora, Mexico?

A twin-engine aircraft performed an emergency descent and crash landing near Zamora after experiencing an onboard fire during flight.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Apr 1978 Beechcraft 65 Queen Air accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Apr 1978 involved a Beechcraft 65 Queen Air, registration N640PH, operated by Larry Johnson Air Services, at Zamora, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exact origin of the in-flight fire remains undetermined.