No fatalities

1972-07-24: Beechcraft D18 (N422T) — Donald R. Robertson — Mazatlán, Mexico

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: The aircraft suffered an engine power loss due to an undetermined mechanical discrepancy during the initial climb. 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 reportUpdated 1781233840Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after departing Mazatlán, resulting in a crash and the destruction of the plane.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Mazatlán-General Rafael Buello Airport, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of power in one of its engines. This mechanical failure caused the airplane to lose altitude rapidly, leading to an impact with the ground.

Despite the severity of the crash, there were no fatalities among the two occupants on board. Both the pilot and the passenger managed to exit the wreckage without sustaining injuries. However, the impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft.

Findings

Official investigations into the incident point toward a loss of power in one engine as the primary factor leading to the descent. While the specific underlying reason for the failure remains unconfirmed, investigators have noted a suspected mechanical discrepancy within the engine system.

Probable cause

The aircraft suffered an engine power loss due to an undetermined mechanical discrepancy during the initial climb.