FlightFinder
Check my flight
No fatalities

San Miguel Island Takeoff Incident: Left Engine Overspeed and Ditching (N1662M)

San Miguel, PanamaTakeoff (climb)

On December 12, 1956, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration N1662M) operated by ASA International Airlines - Aerovias Sud Americana was involved in an aviation accident near San Miguel, Panama during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff from San Miguel Island, a left engine overspeed led to a failed feathering attempt and an emergency ditching. Both pilots were rescued before the aircraft sank at 35 meters depth.

Incident Overview and Immediate Events An aircraft departed San Miguel Island and, shortly after takeoff, experienced an overspeed condition in the left engine. The crew attempted to feather the propeller and shut down the engine, but these actions were unsuccessful. As the aircraft lost both speed and altitude, the crew initiated an emergency landing in the sea a few kilometers offshore. ## Rescue and Subsequent Outcome Both pilots were quickly rescued from the water. The aircraft sank approximately 30 minutes after the ditching, coming to rest at a depth of 35 meters. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or specific cause were provided in the source material.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Dec 1956 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near San Miguel, Panama?

After takeoff from San Miguel Island, a left engine overspeed led to a failed feathering attempt and an emergency ditching. Both pilots were rescued before the aircraft sank at 35 meters depth.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 Dec 1956 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Dec 1956 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration N1662M, operated by ASA International Airlines - Aerovias Sud Americana, at San Miguel, Panama.

More accident analyses