Aircraft stall and crash following takeoff at La Paz-El Alto Airport

No fatalities • La Paz-El Alto, Bolivia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall shortly after departing from La Paz-El Alto Airport, resulting in a post-crash fire and injuries to all occupants.

What happened

Prior to the accident, the aircraft had been stationary at La Paz-El Alto Airport for a period of several days. This downtime was required to address mechanical issues involving the engines. During the subsequent departure, the aircraft reached rotation speed at 74 knots and successfully lifted off from the runway.

However, during the initial climb phase, the aircraft encountered an aerodynamic stall. The plane impacted the ground approximately 1,135 meters beyond the runway threshold, where it subsequently caught fire. The impact and resulting flames led to the total destruction of the airframe. There were four fatalities reported among the occupants, all of whom sustained injuries during the event.

Findings

  • The aircraft was undergoing repairs for engine-related malfunctions prior to the flight.
  • The accident occurred during the initial climb phase following a successful rotation.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall during its initial climb immediately after takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-09-17 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near La Paz-El Alto, Bolivia?

An aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall shortly after departing from La Paz-El Alto Airport, resulting in a post-crash fire and injuries to all occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-09-17 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 1972-09-17 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration CP-565, operated by Aerolineas Abaroa - ALAS, at La Paz-El Alto, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall during its initial climb immediately after takeoff.

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