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.
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.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 1 May 1986 Douglas C-118 Liftmaster accident near San Salvador-Ilopango, Salvador?
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.
Were there any fatalities in the 1 May 1986 Douglas C-118 Liftmaster accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 37 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 May 1986 involved a Douglas C-118 Liftmaster, registration FAS302, operated by Salvadorian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Salvadoreña, at San Salvador-Ilopango, Salvador.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Engine failure and fire during initial climb for unknown reasons.