Engine fire leads to belly landing at Managua Airport

No fatalities • Managua-Augusto Cesar Sandino-Las Mercedes, Nicaragua • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced an engine fire during its initial climb following departure from Managua, resulting in a runway belly landing with no fatalities.

What happened

During the takeoff phase from Managua Airport, the left engine of the aircraft ignited, causing a fire while the plane was climbing. Upon discovering the malfunction, the crew notified air traffic control regarding the emergency situation. Ground controllers subsequently authorized the flight to perform an emergency return to the airfield.

While executing what was described as a standard approach, the aircraft was unable to maintain a landing gear configuration or sufficient altitude for a conventional touchdown. The plane performed a belly landing on the runway, sliding for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop.

Findings

There were no fatalities or injuries reported among the occupants following the incident. However, the impact and subsequent slide resulted in the aircraft being declared a total loss, as it sustained damage beyond repair.

Probable cause

The aircraft underwent an emergency belly landing on the runway due to an engine fire occurring during the climb after takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-08-29 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Managua-Augusto Cesar Sandino-Las Mercedes, Nicaragua?

An aircraft experienced an engine fire during its initial climb following departure from Managua, resulting in a runway belly landing with no fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-08-29 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1972-08-29 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration AN-AMR, operated by Lineas Aéreas de Nicaragua - LANICA, at Managua-Augusto Cesar Sandino-Las Mercedes, Nicaragua.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft underwent an emergency belly landing on the runway due to an engine fire occurring during the climb after takeoff.

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