No fatalities

Engine Failure After Takeoff Leads to Beach Crash Landing in Uruguay (CX-ABI)

Colonia del Sacramento, UruguayTakeoff (climb)

On June 5, 1940, a De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide (registration CX-ABI) operated by Compania Expreso del Plata was involved in an aviation accident near Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure shortly after takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft suffered an engine failure shortly after departing Colonia del Sacramento, forcing a crash landing on a beach that resulted in injuries to all four passengers.

What happened

The incident occurred immediately following the departure from Colonia del Sacramento. During the initial climb phase, one of the engines ceased functioning. With limited altitude and speed available for a controlled return or diversion, the pilot executed an emergency landing on a nearby beach. The impact caused significant structural damage to the airframe, rendering it beyond repair.

All four individuals aboard as passengers sustained injuries during the crash landing. One passenger suffered serious harm, while the remaining three were treated for less severe conditions. The pilot exited the wreckage without sustaining any physical injuries.

Findings

Official investigations identified the loss of power in one engine shortly after takeoff as the primary factor leading to the accident. The immediate failure prevented the crew from regaining sufficient performance to continue flight or reach an alternative landing site safely.

Probable cause

Engine failure shortly after takeoff