No fatalities

Aircraft Crash in Initial Climb After Takeoff from Mazatlán (N422T)

Mazatlán, MexicoTakeoff (climb)

On July 24, 1972, a Beechcraft D18 (registration N422T) operated by Donald R. Robertson was involved in an aviation accident near Mazatlán, Mexico during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of power for undetermined reason. Suspected mechanical discrepancy. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 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 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Mazatlán-General Rafael Buelna Airport due to engine power loss. Both occupants escaped uninjured, but the airplane was destroyed.

Incident Overview and Location Details The incident occurred shortly after the aircraft departed from Mazatlán-General Rafael Buelna Airport. During the initial climb phase of the flight, the aircraft experienced a loss of power in one of its engines. This mechanical failure resulted in the aircraft losing altitude, which ultimately led to a crash. The specific aircraft type, registration, operator, and exact date of the incident are not provided in the available source material. ## Occupant Safety and Aircraft Condition Despite the severity of the crash, both occupants of the aircraft managed to escape the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The aircraft itself was destroyed in the accident, rendering it beyond repair. The event highlights the critical importance of engine reliability during the initial climb phase, a period when aircraft are particularly vulnerable to mechanical failures due to limited altitude and speed.

Probable cause

Loss of power for undetermined reason. Suspected mechanical discrepancy.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Jul 1972 Beechcraft D18 accident near Mazatlán, Mexico?

An aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Mazatlán-General Rafael Buelna Airport due to engine power loss. Both occupants escaped uninjured, but the airplane was destroyed.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Jul 1972 Beechcraft D18 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Jul 1972 involved a Beechcraft D18, registration N422T, operated by Donald R. Robertson, at Mazatlán, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Loss of power for undetermined reason. Suspected mechanical discrepancy.