2 fatalities

1961-12-15: Curtiss C-46 Commando (AN-AOE) — Lineas Aéreas de Nicaragua - LANICA — Managua-Augusto Cesar Sandino-Las Mercedes, Nicaragua

Managua-Augusto Cesar Sandino-Las Mercedes, NicaraguaTakeoff (climb)

On December 15, 1961, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration AN-AOE) operated by Lineas Aéreas de Nicaragua - LANICA was involved in an aviation accident near Managua-Augusto Cesar Sandino-Las Mercedes, Nicaragua during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Cargo displacement towards the rear of the aircraft during the takeoff run or immediately after takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781245208Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft departing Las Mercedes on an IFR flight experienced control difficulties, stalled on final approach, and crashed, killing both crew members. The investigation attributed the accident to cargo displacement.

Flight Details

The aircraft departed Las Mercedes at 1100 local time on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight destined for Miami, Florida. The only persons on board were the captain and first officer.

Accident Sequence

Shortly after departure, the flight crew experienced control difficulties. They attempted to return to Las Mercedes. During the final approach, the aircraft stalled, entered a spin, and crashed at an angle of 45 to 50 degrees on its right wing. Upon impact, the aircraft immediately burst into flames. The fire destroyed the central section, the fuselage, and the parts of the wings that contained the fuel tanks.

Fatalities

Both crew members were killed in the accident.

Probable Cause

The official investigation attributed the accident to the displacement of cargo towards the rear of the aircraft during the takeoff run or immediately after takeoff.