Emergency landing following engine failure results in aircraft loss

No fatalities • Espíritu Santo, Bolivia • Flight

An aircraft crashed in a wooded area after experiencing an engine malfunction during flight, resulting in injuries to both crew members.

What happened

During the course of the flight, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of power due to an engine failure. In response to the mechanical malfunction, the crew initiated procedures for an emergency landing. During the attempt to reach the ground safely, the plane impacted a wooded area.

As a result of the impact, both pilots sustained injuries. The aircraft itself was destroyed in the crash and is considered a total loss.

Findings

Investigations into the incident identified that the primary factor leading to the crash was an engine failure occurring while the aircraft was in flight. The specific underlying reason for the engine's loss of power remains undetermined.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an engine failure of unknown origin during flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1977-02-01 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Espíritu Santo, Bolivia?

An aircraft crashed in a wooded area after experiencing an engine malfunction during flight, resulting in injuries to both crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 1977-02-01 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1977-02-01 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration CP-540, operated by Servicios Aéreos Bolivianos - SAB, at Espíritu Santo, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by an engine failure of unknown origin during flight.

Loading the flight search…