3 fatalities

Cargo aircraft crash near Rioja Airport (OB-R-606)

Rioja, PeruLanding (descent or approach)

On February 23, 1966, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration OB-R-606) operated by Trans Peruana was involved in an aviation accident near Rioja, Peru during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo flight traveling from Chiclayo to Chachapoyas crashed into a mountainside during its descent into Rioja.

What happened

During a scheduled cargo operation, an aircraft was performing a descent toward Rioja Airport. The flight originated in Chiclayo and was intended to stop in Rioja before continuing to its final destination of Chachapoyas. While approaching the airport, the plane collided with a mountainside situated a short distance from the runway.

At the time of the impact, the aircraft was transporting approximately 5 tons of diverse cargo. The collision resulted in the deaths of all three crew members onboard.

Findings

  • The accident occurred during the descent phase of flight.
  • The aircraft struck terrain located a few kilometers from the destination airport.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Feb 1966 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Rioja, Peru?

A cargo flight traveling from Chiclayo to Chachapoyas crashed into a mountainside during its descent into Rioja.

Were there any fatalities in the 23 Feb 1966 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Feb 1966 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration OB-R-606, operated by Trans Peruana, at Rioja, Peru.