On January 17, 1962, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration ZP-CAI) operated by Aerocarga - Paraguay was involved in an aviation accident near Curuzú Cuatiá, Argentina during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was involved in an illegal smuggling operation at the time of the crash landing. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft carrying illicit cargo crashed in a remote region southeast of Curuzú Cuatiá, resulting in no injuries but total loss of the plane.
What happened
A flight involving an undocumented transport of contraband ended in a crash landing approximately 50 km southeast of Curuzú Cuatiá. The aircraft was operating in a remote area at the time of the incident. While the impact resulted in the total loss of the airframe, both members of the crew survived the event without any reported injuries.
Findings
Investigations into the incident revealed that the flight was being conducted illegally for the purpose of transporting prohibited goods. The nature of the operation and the unauthorized cargo were primary elements of the event.
Probable cause
The aircraft was involved in an illegal smuggling operation at the time of the crash landing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 Jan 1962 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Curuzú Cuatiá, Argentina?
An aircraft carrying illicit cargo crashed in a remote region southeast of Curuzú Cuatiá, resulting in no injuries but total loss of the plane.
Were there any fatalities in the 17 Jan 1962 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Jan 1962 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration ZP-CAI, operated by Aerocarga - Paraguay, at Curuzú Cuatiá, Argentina.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft was involved in an illegal smuggling operation at the time of the crash landing.
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