30 fatalities

1964-01-09: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (LV-FYJ) — Aerotransportes Litoral Argentino — Zárate, Argentina

Zárate, ArgentinaLanding (descent or approach)

On January 9, 1964, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration LV-FYJ) operated by Aerotransportes Litoral Argentino was involved in an aviation accident near Zárate, Argentina during landing or approach. 30 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Impact with the ground, for reasons which could not be ascertained, during a precautionary landing. There were fumes or smoke in the cabin and No.2 engine was cut and its propeller was windmilling, due to oil leakage. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781243465Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft on a flight from Rosario to Buenos Aires made an emergency landing in a field after a cabin fire, resulting in 30 fatalities and one serious injury.

Accident

At 09:01, an aircraft departed Rosario on the last leg of a flight from Santa Fe to Buenos Aires. The flight plan indicated a cruising altitude of 1200 m, but turbulence prompted the crew to climb first to 1800 m and later to 2400 m. At 09:43, the pilot reported a localized fire in the cabin and announced an intention to make an emergency landing at Zárate. The aircraft did not reach Zárate; it was observed attempting an emergency landing in a field 9 km from the town.

During the landing attempt, the aircraft struck the ground with its undercarriage, left wing, and engine, leading to disintegration. A fire erupted but did not spread over the entire aircraft. One passenger was seriously injured, and 30 other occupants were killed.

Investigation

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident. No further details regarding the investigation process were provided in the source.

Probable Cause

Impact with the ground, for reasons which could not be ascertained, during a precautionary landing. There were fumes or smoke in the cabin and No.2 engine was cut and its propeller was windmilling, due to oil leakage.