Emergency landing near La Paz-El Alto results in aircraft damage

No fatalities • Laja, Bolivia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft performing an approach to La Paz-El Alto was forced into an emergency landing in Laja, resulting in injuries to all occupants.

What happened

During the approach phase to La Paz-El Alto, the flight crew encountered unforeseen circumstances that prevented them from completing the intended landing at the airport. In response to this unexpected situation, the crew initiated an emergency descent and attempted to land the aircraft elsewhere.

The aircraft subsequently crash landed in the vicinity of Laja, situated approximately 18 km west of the destination airport. The impact resulted in the total loss of the airframe, as the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Impact

  • All five occupants on board sustained injuries during the event.
  • There were no reported fatalities among the crew or passengers.
  • The aircraft was destroyed upon impact.

Probable cause

The crew was forced to perform an emergency landing due to an unexpected situation encountered during the approach to the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-02-12 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Laja, Bolivia?

An aircraft performing an approach to La Paz-El Alto was forced into an emergency landing in Laja, resulting in injuries to all occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-02-12 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-02-12 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration TAM-11, operated by TAM Bolivia - Transporte Aéreo Militar Boliviano, at Laja, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew was forced to perform an emergency landing due to an unexpected situation encountered during the approach to the airport.

Loading the flight search…