In-flight propeller separation leads to emergency landing near Mérida

No fatalities • Mérida, Mexico • Flight

A cargo flight operating to Mexico experienced an engine failure and structural damage during flight, resulting in a belly landing near Mérida.

What happened

During a scheduled cargo operation bound for Mexico, the aircraft experienced a significant mechanical failure involving the right-hand engine. During the flight, the propeller assembly on the right engine detached from the engine itself. As the propeller blades separated, several pieces of the hardware struck the fuselage and subsequently made contact with the left engine.

Due to the severe damage sustained by both engines and the structural integrity of the airframe, the crew was forced to execute an emergency descent. The aircraft performed a belly landing in the vicinity of Mérida. While the impact resulted in the aircraft being damaged beyond repair, there were no injuries reported among the two crew members on board.

Findings

Investigations into the mechanical failure revealed that the separation was caused by the structural failure of internal engine components. Specifically, the incident was triggered by the failure of a crankshaft and a master rod bearing within the right engine.

Probable cause

The propeller separated due to the failure of a master rod bearing and a crankshaft in the right engine.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1950-06-15 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Mérida, Mexico?

A cargo flight operating to Mexico experienced an engine failure and structural damage during flight, resulting in a belly landing near Mérida.

Were there any fatalities in the 1950-06-15 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1950-06-15 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration N74170, operated by Pan American World Airways - PAA, at Mérida, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The propeller separated due to the failure of a master rod bearing and a crankshaft in the right engine.

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