3 fatalities

Engine Failure Leads to Fatal Crash of Survey Flight (PH-DAA)

Tafelberg, SurinameFlight

On October 25, 1968, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration PH-DAA) operated by KLM Aerocarto was involved in an aviation accident near Tafelberg, Suriname in flight. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure for undetermined reason. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A survey flight crashed after an engine failure and subsequent descent into low clouds and trees, killing three crew members. Two passengers were rescued.

Accident Overview

A survey flight experienced an engine failure while cruising at an altitude of 10,000 feet. The crew feathered the propeller of the failed engine and initiated a descent in an attempt to improve the performance of the remaining engine. During the descent, the pilot encountered low clouds and limited visibility. The airplane subsequently struck trees, stalled, and crashed into a dense wooded area.

Occupants and Fatalities

The aircraft carried five persons: two passengers and three crew members. Both passengers were rescued, but all three crew members were killed in the accident.

Probable Cause

Official investigation findings determined that the probable cause of the accident was an engine failure for an undetermined reason.