On May 8, 1959, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration OB-QAM-488) operated by Transportes Aéreos Peruanas - TAPSA was involved in an aviation accident near Cuzco-Alejandro Velasco Astete, Peru during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall shortly after departing the runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall shortly after departing from Cuzco, resulting in a field crash and partial destruction of the plane.
What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from the Cuzco-Alejandro Velasco Astete airport, the aircraft encountered an aerodynamic stall. This loss of lift caused the plane to descend into a nearby field, where it impacted the ground and subsequently caught fire.
Despite the intensity of the flames and the partial destruction of the airframe, all five people on board were able to exit the wreckage. There were zero fatalities reported in the incident, as every occupant evacuated the aircraft safely before the fire could cause further harm.
Findings
The aircraft entered a state of aerodynamic stall during the period immediately following takeoff.
Probable cause
The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall shortly after departing the runway.
What happened in the 8 May 1959 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Cuzco-Alejandro Velasco Astete, Peru?
An aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall shortly after departing from Cuzco, resulting in a field crash and partial destruction of the plane.
Were there any fatalities in the 8 May 1959 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 May 1959 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration OB-QAM-488, operated by Transportes Aéreos Peruanas - TAPSA, at Cuzco-Alejandro Velasco Astete, Peru.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall shortly after departing the runway.
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