Aircraft accident near Las Mercedes during approach to Miami

2 fatalities • Managua-Augusto Cesar Sandino-Las Mercedes, Nicaragua • Takeoff (climb)

A two-person crew was killed when their aircraft stalled and entered a spin while attempting to return to Las Mercedes airport.

What happened

On the morning of the accident, an aircraft departed from Las Mercedes at 11:00 local time, operating under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) for a flight destined for Miami, Florida. The flight was operated with two crew members on board, consisting of the captain and the copilot.

Shortly after the departure phase, the flight crew encountered significant difficulties regarding the control of the aircraft. In an effort to rectify the situation, the crew attempted to return to the departure airport. During the final approach, the aircraft experienced a stall and subsequently entered a spin. The impact occurred at an angle between 45° and 50° on the right wing.

Upon impact, the aircraft caught fire immediately. The intensity of the post-crash fire resulted in the destruction of the fuselage's central section, as well as the portions of the wings housing the fuel tanks. There were two fatalities among the crew members.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was cargo displacement towards the rear of the aircraft, which occurred either during the takeoff roll or immediately following liftoff.

Probable cause

The movement of cargo toward the aft section of the plane during or after takeoff caused the loss of control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1961-12-15 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Managua-Augusto Cesar Sandino-Las Mercedes, Nicaragua?

A two-person crew was killed when their aircraft stalled and entered a spin while attempting to return to Las Mercedes airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 1961-12-15 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1961-12-15 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration AN-AOE, operated by Lineas Aéreas de Nicaragua - LANICA, at Managua-Augusto Cesar Sandino-Las Mercedes, Nicaragua.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The movement of cargo toward the aft section of the plane during or after takeoff caused the loss of control.

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