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Undercarriage collapse during landing results in aircraft hull loss (CU-C556)

Havana, CubaLanding (descent or approach)

On May 17, 1954, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration CU-C556) operated by Cubana de Aviación was involved in an aviation accident near Havana, Cuba during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The landing gear collapsed during the touchdown phase of flight. 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 sustained significant damage after its landing gear failed during the touchdown phase of flight, resulting in no injuries.

What happened

During the landing phase of the flight, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure upon contact with the runway. As the plane made touchdown, the undercarriage collapsed, causing the aircraft to lose stability and veer out of control.

The sequence of events led to the aircraft coming to a halt in a position that caused extensive structural damage. Following the incident, the aircraft was determined to be a total loss and was categorized as damaged beyond repair. There were no reported fatalities or injuries among the occupants during the event.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was the failure of the landing gear assembly.
  • The collapse occurred specifically at the moment of touchdown.

Probable cause

The landing gear collapsed during the touchdown phase of flight.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 May 1954 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Havana, Cuba?

An aircraft sustained significant damage after its landing gear failed during the touchdown phase of flight, resulting in no injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 17 May 1954 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 May 1954 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration CU-C556, operated by Cubana de Aviación, at Havana, Cuba.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The landing gear collapsed during the touchdown phase of flight.

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