Fatal aircraft accident near Canaima Airport

34 fatalities • Canaima, Venezuela • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed shortly after attempting an emergency return to Canaima Airport following an engine failure during its initial climb.

What happened

During the departure phase from Canaima Airport, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure involving the left engine. This malfunction occurred while the plane was in its climbing phase immediately after takeoff.

In response to the loss of power, the crew initiated an emergency procedure to return to the airfield. While the aircraft was on final approach, it entered a stall condition. The subsequent impact occurred a few kilometers away from the runway. There were 34 fatalities resulting from the accident, with no survivors among the occupants.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary factor in the accident was the failure of the left engine during the climb following takeoff. The specific reason for this engine malfunction remains undetermined.

Probable cause

The loss of power in the left engine during the initial climb led to an aerodynamic stall during the emergency return attempt.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-08-27 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Canaima, Venezuela?

An aircraft crashed shortly after attempting an emergency return to Canaima Airport following an engine failure during its initial climb.

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-08-27 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 34 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1972-08-27 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration YV-C-AKE, operated by Linea Aeropostal Venezolana - LAV, at Canaima, Venezuela.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of power in the left engine during the initial climb led to an aerodynamic stall during the emergency return attempt.

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