3 fatalities

Fatal aircraft accident near Belém-Val-de-Cans Airport (PP-BTA)

Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro, BrazilTakeoff (climb)

On May 6, 1959, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration PP-BTA) operated by Paraense Transportes Aéreos was involved in an aviation accident near Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro, Brazil during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft lost controllability while performing a right turn at a low altitude shortly after departure. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed during its initial climb following a night departure from Belém, resulting in the deaths of all three people on board.

What happened

During a nighttime departure from Belém-Val-de-Cans Airport, an aircraft entered a critical phase of flight shortly after takeoff. While operating at a low altitude, the pilot-in-command initiated a right-hand turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of control, leading to a crash that resulted in a post-impact fire.

There were three fatalities among the crew members on board. No other persons were reported to be involved in the incident.

Findings

The investigation indicates that the accident occurred during a low-altitude turn immediately following takeoff, which led to the loss of control of the aircraft.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost controllability while performing a right turn at a low altitude shortly after departure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 May 1959 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro, Brazil?

An aircraft crashed during its initial climb following a night departure from Belém, resulting in the deaths of all three people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 May 1959 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 May 1959 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration PP-BTA, operated by Paraense Transportes Aéreos, at Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost controllability while performing a right turn at a low altitude shortly after departure.