Aircraft crash landing due to control cable installation error

No fatalities • Puerto Montt-El Tepual, Chile • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a wing drop during takeoff, resulting in a crash landing and minor injuries to the crew.

What happened

During the takeoff roll, the aircraft completed a distance of 500 meters before lifting off the ground. Shortly after reaching an altitude of approximately 10 meters, the right wing of the aircraft suddenly dropped. This movement caused the tip of the right wing to make contact with the terrain, leading to a crash landing.

As a result of the impact, all three crew members sustained slight injuries. The aircraft itself suffered damage that was classified as beyond repair.

Findings

Investigations into the accident revealed that the primary factor involved the mechanical state of the flight controls. Specifically, it was discovered that the aileron control cables had been improperly installed, which led to the loss of lateral control during the initial climb.

Probable cause

The improper installation of the aileron control cables caused the wing to drop during takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-12-05 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Puerto Montt-El Tepual, Chile?

An aircraft experienced a wing drop during takeoff, resulting in a crash landing and minor injuries to the crew.

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-12-05 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 1969-12-05 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration CC-CBY, operated by LAN Chile - Linea Aérea Nacional de Chile, at Puerto Montt-El Tepual, Chile.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The improper installation of the aileron control cables caused the wing to drop during takeoff.

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