Engine failure and runway overrun at Ezeiza Airport

No fatalities • Buenos Aires-Ezeiza-Ministro Pistarini, Argentina • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a left engine failure during its takeoff roll at Ezeiza Airport, resulting in a runway excursion and subsequent fire.

What happened

During the initial stages of the takeoff roll, before reaching V1 decision speed, the aircraft's left engine ceased functioning. In response to the malfunction, the crew proceeded to shut down the engine and feather the propeller. Despite these actions, the aircraft type overran the runway at Ezeiza Airport, colliding with various obstacles along its path. The impact triggered a fire that ultimately consumed the airframe.

Despite the intensity of the post-crash fire, all four crew members managed to evacuate the wreckage without sustaining injuries. While the occupants escaped safely, the aircraft was completely destroyed by the flames.

Findings

Investigations into the incident revealed that the specific reason for the left engine's failure remained undetermined. However, investigators identified a significant operational factor: the decision to conduct a training flight at Ezeiza Airport was problematic because the runway length was deemed inadequate for this specific type of mission. Consequently, when the engine malfunction occurred, there was insufficient runway remaining to safely abort the takeoff and stop the aircraft before exiting the paved surface.

Probable cause

The insufficient runway length for the intended training mission left no margin for error following an engine failure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1958-11-11 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Buenos Aires-Ezeiza-Ministro Pistarini, Argentina?

An aircraft experienced a left engine failure during its takeoff roll at Ezeiza Airport, resulting in a runway excursion and subsequent fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 1958-11-11 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1958-11-11 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration LV-FTP, operated by Transcontinental TSA, at Buenos Aires-Ezeiza-Ministro Pistarini, Argentina.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The insufficient runway length for the intended training mission left no margin for error following an engine failure.

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