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Emergency Landing in Laja Prairie (TAM-30)

Laja, BoliviaLanding (descent or approach)

On January 19, 1974, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration TAM-30) operated by TAM Bolivia - Transporte Aéreo Militar Boliviano was involved in an aviation accident near Laja, Bolivia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine problems. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft belly-landed in a prairie near La Paz-El Alto Airport after encountering engine problems during descent. No casualties were reported, and the aircraft was written off.

Incident Overview During a descent to La Paz-El Alto Airport, the flight crew encountered technical problems with the engines. Due to these issues, the crew decided to attempt an emergency landing. The aircraft belly-landed in a prairie located in Laja, approximately 18 km west of the airport. After sliding for a few dozen meters, the aircraft came to rest. No casualties were reported, but the aircraft was written off. ## Probable Cause The official investigation identified engine problems as the probable cause of the incident. ## Aftermath The incident resulted in no injuries or fatalities. The aircraft sustained significant damage and was declared a total loss.

Engine failure

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Jan 1974 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Laja, Bolivia?

An aircraft belly-landed in a prairie near La Paz-El Alto Airport after encountering engine problems during descent. No casualties were reported, and the aircraft was written off.

Were there any fatalities in the 19 Jan 1974 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 19 Jan 1974 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration TAM-30, operated by TAM Bolivia - Transporte Aéreo Militar Boliviano, at Laja, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine problems

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