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3 fatalities

Crew Loses Control After Technical Difficulties, Crashes Near San Antonio del Táchira (59-2221)

San Antonio del Táchira, VenezuelaTakeoff (climb)

On April 11, 1969, a De Havilland DHC-3 Otter (registration 59-2221) operated by United States Army was involved in an aviation accident near San Antonio del Táchira, Venezuela during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Unknown mechanical failure. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after takeoff from San Antonio del Táchira Airport, the crew encountered technical difficulties and elected to return when control was lost. The airplane crashed and was destroyed. Three occupants were killed; a passenger and copilot survived.

Accident Overview

Minutes after departing San Antonio del Táchira Airport, the flight crew experienced technical difficulties and decided to return to the airport. During the attempt, control of the aircraft was lost, and it crashed a few kilometers from the airfield. The airplane was destroyed in the impact.

Occupants and Casualties

A passenger and the copilot survived the crash, while three other occupants were killed. The deceased were identified as Maj Larry Frank (pilot), Lt Miles W. Bowen, and Harold D. Moir Jr.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be an unknown mechanical failure.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Apr 1969 De Havilland DHC-3 Otter accident near San Antonio del Táchira, Venezuela?

Shortly after takeoff from San Antonio del Táchira Airport, the crew encountered technical difficulties and elected to return when control was lost. The airplane crashed and was destroyed. Three occupants were killed; a passenger and copilot survived.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Apr 1969 De Havilland DHC-3 Otter accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Apr 1969 involved a De Havilland DHC-3 Otter, registration 59-2221, operated by United States Army, at San Antonio del Táchira, Venezuela.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Unknown mechanical failure

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