No fatalities

Emergency landing and aircraft loss at David Airport (YV-C-LBG)

David, PanamaLanding (descent or approach)

On May 19, 1960, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration YV-C-LBG) operated by Linea Expressa Bolivar Compania Aérea - LEBCA was involved in an aviation accident near David, Panama during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An unforeseen in-flight emergency necessitated a diversion that resulted in a crash landing. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 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 sustained heavy damage following a crash landing at David Airport after the crew diverted due to an unforeseen in-flight situation.

What happened

While operating an active flight, the flight crew encountered an unanticipated event during the transit phase of the journey. This unexpected situation necessitated an immediate change in flight path, leading the crew to initiate an emergency diversion toward David Airport.

During the attempt to land at the destination, the aircraft underwent a crash landing. The impact resulted in the vessel being damaged beyond repair, rendering it a total loss. Despite the severity of the impact, there were no injuries reported among those on board.

Findings

  • The crew was forced to divert due to an unexpected situation encountered during flight.
  • The incident concluded with a crash landing at David Airport.

Probable cause

An unforeseen in-flight emergency necessitated a diversion that resulted in a crash landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 May 1960 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near David, Panama?

An aircraft sustained heavy damage following a crash landing at David Airport after the crew diverted due to an unforeseen in-flight situation.

Were there any fatalities in the 19 May 1960 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 May 1960 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration YV-C-LBG, operated by Linea Expressa Bolivar Compania Aérea - LEBCA, at David, Panama.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An unforeseen in-flight emergency necessitated a diversion that resulted in a crash landing.