2 fatalities

Aircraft Stalls and Crashes After Engine Failure During Initial Climb (CP-959)

Trinidad, BoliviaTakeoff (climb)

On September 7, 1972, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration CP-959) operated by SAVCO - Servicios Aéreos Virgen de Copacabana was involved in an aviation accident near Trinidad, Bolivia during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control during initial climb caused by the failure of the left engine. 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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from runway 31, an aircraft banked left and stalled at 20 meters height after a 1,200-meter ground run. It struck the runway, veered off, lost its undercarriage, hit a fence, and collided with trees. Six passengers were injured; both pilots were killed.

Accident Overview

An aircraft conducting a takeoff on runway 31 experienced a loss of control during initial climb, resulting in a crash. The investigation determined the left engine failed, leading to the accident.

Sequence of Events

The pilot-in-command completed rotation after a ground run of 1,200 meters. During the initial climb, at a height of 20 meters, the airplane banked to the left and then stalled. It struck the runway surface, veered off the runway, and lost its undercarriage. The aircraft continued through a fence and collided with trees.

Injuries and Damage

All six passengers sustained injuries. Both pilots were killed. The aircraft was substantially damaged.

Probable Cause

Official findings state the probable cause was a loss of control during initial climb caused by the failure of the left engine.