Fatal crash following engine failure at Santiago-Los Cerrillos Airport

4 fatalities • Santiago de Chile-Los Cerrillos, Chile • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed in a field near Santiago after experiencing an engine failure during its initial climb, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During the early stages of flight from runway 03 at Santiago-Los Cerrillos Airport, the aircraft experienced a mechanical issue involving the right engine. Following this failure, the pilot issued an emergency declaration and attempted to return to the airfield for an unplanned landing.

While performing this maneuver during the initial climb phase, the aircraft entered a stall. The plane subsequently impacted a field situated approximately 2 km from the airport. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. There were four fatalities among the occupants of the flight.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the accident was caused by a loss of control during the climb following the failure of the right engine. Investigators were unable to pinpoint the specific reason for the engine malfunction because the engines were too heavily damaged to allow for a detailed analysis. Furthermore, due to the lack of available evidence, investigators could not determine if there was any connection between the engine failure and potential aircraft overloading or how such factors might have impacted the performance of the remaining left engine.

Probable cause

The loss of control during the initial climb phase following the failure of the right engine.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-05-25 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Santiago de Chile-Los Cerrillos, Chile?

An aircraft crashed in a field near Santiago after experiencing an engine failure during its initial climb, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-05-25 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-05-25 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration CC-CAZ, operated by Aerolineas Flecha Austral - AFA, at Santiago de Chile-Los Cerrillos, Chile.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of control during the initial climb phase following the failure of the right engine.

Loading the flight search…