No fatalities

1977-06-13: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (TC-15) — Argentinian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Argentina — Mendoza-El Plumerillo, Argentina

Mendoza-El Plumerillo, ArgentinaTakeoff (climb)

On June 13, 1977, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration TC-15) operated by Argentinian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Argentina was involved in an aviation accident near Mendoza-El Plumerillo, Argentina during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine on the left side of the aircraft failed during the takeoff sequence for unknown reasons. 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)Primary reportUpdated 1781227895Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after experiencing a loss of power in its left engine during the takeoff phase.

What happened

During the initial stages of takeoff, the aircraft experienced a critical mechanical failure involving the left engine. This sudden loss of power occurred while the plane was still ascending from the runway. The resulting imbalance and loss of thrust led to a crash that resulted in the near-total destruction of the airframe.

All individuals on board the aircraft sustained serious injuries during the impact. There were no fatalities reported among the occupants, though the severity of the injuries was significant due to the force of the accident.

Findings

Investigations into the incident focused on the sudden malfunction of the propulsion system. The primary factor identified in the accident was the failure of the left engine during the takeoff roll. At this time, the specific underlying reason for why the engine ceased to function remains undetermined.

Probable cause

The engine on the left side of the aircraft failed during the takeoff sequence for unknown reasons.