On September 13, 1967, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration N1309V) operated by Capitol Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Kingston-Norman Manley (Palisadoes), Jamaica during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Powerplant failure for undetermined reason. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
After takeoff from Kingston-Palisadoes Airport, an engine failure prompted a return attempt, but the crew decided to ditch offshore. All four occupants rescued; aircraft lost.
Event
Following takeoff from Kingston-Palisadoes Airport, the aircraft experienced an engine failure while climbing. The crew informed ground personnel of the failure and initially elected to return to the airport for a safe landing. However, the captain later determined that reaching the airport was not feasible and made the decision to ditch the aircraft a few kilometers offshore.
Rescue
All four occupants of the aircraft were rescued quickly after the ditching. The aircraft itself was lost.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be powerplant failure for an undetermined reason.