Emergency belly landing near La Paz-El Alto Airport

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

An aircraft performing an emergency descent to La Paz-El Alto Airport suffered engine malfunctions, resulting in a belly landing in Laja.

What happened

During the descent toward La Paz-El Alto Airport, the flight crew identified technical difficulties involving the engines. Due to these mechanical issues, the decision was made to execute an emergency landing procedure.

The aircraft subsequently performed a belly landing within a prairie area situated in Laja, approximately 18 km west of the destination airport. Following the initial impact, the plane slid for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop. While there were no fatalities or injuries reported among those on board, the aircraft was determined to be a total loss.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary factor leading to the emergency landing was engine problems encountered during the approach phase.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by technical malfunctions within the engines during the descent.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1974-01-19 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Laja, Bolivia?

An aircraft performing an emergency descent to La Paz-El Alto Airport suffered engine malfunctions, resulting in a belly landing in Laja.

Were there any fatalities in the 1974-01-19 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 1974-01-19 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?

The accident was caused by technical malfunctions within the engines during the descent.

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