6 fatalities

1961-10-10: De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (FAP317) — Peruvian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea del Perú — Iquitos-Moronacocha, Peru

Iquitos-Moronacocha, PeruFlight

On October 10, 1961, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration FAP317) operated by Peruvian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea del Perú was involved in an aviation accident near Iquitos-Moronacocha, Peru in flight. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft suffered a loss of power due to engine failure during its approach to Iquitos. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781245395Data APIEditorial standards

A seaplane crashed into the Rio Napo during an emergency landing attempt following an engine malfunction, resulting in six fatalities.

What happened

During an approach to Iquitos, a seaplane experienced a sudden loss of power due to engine failure. In response to the mechanical issue, the pilot attempted to perform an emergency water landing on the Rio Napo.

As the aircraft reached the final stage of its descent, it collided with a tree trunk before impacting the river surface. The accident resulted in six fatalities among the passengers and crew. One individual, the mechanic, managed to swim to the riverbank where they were subsequently rescued.

Findings

Investigations into the accident confirmed that the primary factor leading to the crash was an engine failure occurring during the approach phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft suffered a loss of power due to engine failure during its approach to Iquitos.