37 fatalities

1986-05-01: Douglas C-118 Liftmaster (FAS302) — Salvadorian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Salvadoreña — San Salvador-Ilopango, Salvador

San Salvador-Ilopango, SalvadorTakeoff (climb)

On May 1, 1986, a Douglas C-118 Liftmaster (registration FAS302) operated by Salvadorian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Salvadoreña was involved in an aviation accident near San Salvador-Ilopango, Salvador during takeoff. 37 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure and fire during initial climb for unknown reasons. 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 1781217461Data APIEditorial standards

Following takeoff from San Salvador-Ilopango Airport, one of the four engines failed and caught fire. The aircraft could not maintain altitude, collided with a mountain, and disintegrated. All 37 occupants were killed.

Accident Overview

On an unspecified date, an airplane departed from San Salvador-Ilopango Airport. During the initial climb phase, one of its four engines failed and caught fire. The aircraft was unable to gain sufficient altitude and subsequently struck the slope of a mountain located approximately 3 kilometers from the airport. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate.

Occupants and Fatalities

The airplane was carrying 37 occupants at the time of the accident. All 37 were killed in the crash.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be an engine failure and fire during the initial climb for unknown reasons. No further details regarding the specific cause of the engine failure were provided.