Fatal crash during test flight near Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar Airport

3 fatalities • Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar, Venezuela • Takeoff (climb)

A local test flight ended in a fatal crash on Mt Playa Grande after the crew reported technical issues with an engine.

What happened

During a scheduled local test flight departing from Maiquetá-Simón Bolívar Airport, the flight crew encountered significant mechanical difficulties. While the aircraft was in its initial climb phase, the operators contacted Air Traffic Control to report malfunctions involving the right-hand engine. Following this communication, the crew received authorization to execute an emergency return to the airfield.

However, during the attempt to land, the aircraft struck Mt Playa Grande, located in close proximity to the airport. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the plane. There were three fatalities among the crew members on board.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was an overspeeding propeller, which subsequently led to the failure of the starboard engine.

Probable cause

The failure of the right engine was triggered by a propeller overspeed condition.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1959-12-01 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar, Venezuela?

A local test flight ended in a fatal crash on Mt Playa Grande after the crew reported technical issues with an engine.

Were there any fatalities in the 1959-12-01 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1959-12-01 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration YV-C-AKU, operated by Linea Aeropostal Venezolana - LAV, at Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar, Venezuela.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the right engine was triggered by a propeller overspeed condition.

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