3 fatalities

1969-04-11: De Havilland DHC-3 Otter (59-2221) — United States Army — San Antonio del Táchira, Venezuela

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)Primary reportUpdated 1781237691Data 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.