Aircraft crash short of runway during medical mission

No fatalities • Curuzú Cuatiá, Argentina • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft performing a sanitary mission from Buenos Aires crashed before reaching the runway threshold after an engine failure.

What happened

During a flight transporting medical ventilation equipment from Buenos Aires to Curuzú Cuatiá, an aircraft experienced a critical failure during its final approach. While attempting to land, the plane was operating with one engine non-functional. This loss of power led to an aerodynamic stall, causing the aircraft type to crash before reaching the runway threshold.

Despite the impact, all occupants on board were able to evacuate the wreckage without injury. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss. The mission was being conducted as part of a sanitary operation to deliver essential medical supplies to the destination.

Findings

Investigations into the incident revealed that the engine failure was not an isolated mechanical malfunction. Evidence indicates that the crew had to manually shut down one engine after an in-flight fire developed, which directly contributed to the loss of thrust during the approach phase.

Probable cause

The crew disabled an engine to manage an onboard fire, resulting in insufficient power to maintain flight during approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1952-02-16 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Curuzú Cuatiá, Argentina?

An aircraft performing a sanitary mission from Buenos Aires crashed before reaching the runway threshold after an engine failure.

Were there any fatalities in the 1952-02-16 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 1952-02-16 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration T-20, operated by Argentinian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Argentina, at Curuzú Cuatiá, Argentina.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew disabled an engine to manage an onboard fire, resulting in insufficient power to maintain flight during approach.

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