On February 25, 1970, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration TI-1065) operated by Servicios Aéreos Curtiss was involved in an aviation accident near San Francisco, Bolivia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The left engine exploded and caught fire due to the failure of the carburetor. It is believed that the failure of the left engine and its components may be the consequence of an overloaded aircraft. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During initial climb, the left engine lost power. The captain decided to return. While turning to join the approach, the left engine exploded and caught fire. The captain made an emergency landing in a field. Both pilots evacuated before the aircraft was destroyed.
Accident Summary
During the initial climb after takeoff, the left engine lost power. The captain decided to return to the airport for a safe landing. While completing the last turn to join the approach path, the left engine exploded and caught fire. As the aircraft was losing height, the captain attempted an emergency landing in a field located a few kilometers short of the runway. Both pilots were quickly evacuated. The aircraft was destroyed.
Sequence of Events
The loss of engine power occurred during the initial climb phase. The captain's decision to return was made in response to the engine malfunction. During the final turn to intercept the approach path, the left engine exploded and ignited. The aircraft began to lose altitude, prompting the captain to execute an emergency landing in a field. The pilots evacuated the aircraft promptly after landing. The aircraft was subsequently destroyed by the fire.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined that the left engine exploded and caught fire due to a failure of the carburetor. It is also believed that the failure of the left engine and its components may be the consequence of an overloaded aircraft.