Aircraft crash near La Paz-El Alto Airport

12 fatalities • La Paz, Bolivia • Takeoff (climb)

A fatal aviation accident occurred near Mt Cunatincuta during the climb phase following departure from La Paz.

What happened

Shortly after departing from La Paz-El Alto Airport, an aircraft entered a fatal descent into terrain. Approximately 13 minutes into the flight, while the plane was in its climbing phase, it struck Mt Cunatincuta, which is situated a short distance from the capital city.

At the time of the impact, the flight was operating under adverse meteorological conditions. The collision resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. There were 12 fatalities recorded among the occupants, with no survivors reported from the crash site.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified that the aircraft was navigating through poor weather at the time of the incident. The primary factor contributing to the disaster was controlled flight into terrain.

Probable cause

The aircraft flew into mountainous terrain while operating in adverse weather conditions during the climb phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-02-17 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near La Paz, Bolivia?

A fatal aviation accident occurred near Mt Cunatincuta during the climb phase following departure from La Paz.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-02-17 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 12 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-02-17 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration TAM-60, operated by TAM Bolivia - Transporte Aéreo Militar Boliviano, at La Paz, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft flew into mountainous terrain while operating in adverse weather conditions during the climb phase.

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