Engine failure and subsequent fire during initial climb

No fatalities • San Francisco, Bolivia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a loss of power in its left engine during takeoff, leading to an engine explosion and an emergency landing in a field.

What happened

During the initial climb phase of the flight, the aircraft's left engine suffered a significant loss of power. In response to this mechanical issue, the captain initiated a maneuver to return to the airfield for an emergency landing.

As the crew was performing a final turn to align with the approach path, the left engine underwent an explosion and subsequently ignited a fire. Due to a continuous loss of altitude, the pilot was forced to execute an emergency touchdown in a field situated a few kilometers before reaching the runway.

Although the aircraft was completely destroyed during the impact, both the pilot and the co-pilot were able to evacuate the wreckage quickly without sustaining injuries. There were 0 fatalities reported from this incident.

Findings

Investigations into the accident concluded that a carburetor failure caused the left engine to explode and catch fire. Additionally, investigators noted that the engine malfunction and the resulting damage to its components may have been triggered by the aircraft being operated in an overloaded condition.

Probable cause

A failure within the carburetor led to an engine explosion and fire, potentially exacerbated by the aircraft exceeding its maximum weight limits.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-02-25 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near San Francisco, Bolivia?

An aircraft experienced a loss of power in its left engine during takeoff, leading to an engine explosion and an emergency landing in a field.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-02-25 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-02-25 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration TI-1065, operated by Servicios Aéreos Curtiss, at San Francisco, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A failure within the carburetor led to an engine explosion and fire, potentially exacerbated by the aircraft exceeding its maximum weight limits.

Loading the flight search…