2 fatalities

1978-12-11: Douglas C-49 (DC-3) (N133AC) — Aircraft Sales & Leasing - ASL — Port Mayaca, United States of America

Port Mayaca, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On December 11, 1978, a Douglas C-49 (DC-3) (registration N133AC) operated by Aircraft Sales & Leasing - ASL was involved in an aviation accident near Port Mayaca, United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with trees and subsequent crash in traffic pattern-circling due to mismanagement of fuel. Contributing factors: fuel starvation, pilot attempted operation beyond experience/ability level, unqualified person operated aircraft, complete engine failure… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781225817Data APIEditorial standards

While circling to land in Port Mayaca, a twin-engine aircraft carrying 2.2 tons of marijuana lost height, struck trees, and crashed, killing both pilots. Investigation cited fuel mismanagement and other contributing factors.

Accident Overview

On an unspecified date, a twin-engine aircraft was circling to land in a remote area of Port Mayaca when it lost altitude, struck trees, and subsequently crashed. The aircraft was destroyed in the impact, and both pilots on board were killed. According to reports, the airplane was carrying a cargo of 2.2 tons of marijuana.

Probable Cause

Official findings determined that the probable cause of the accident was a collision with trees and subsequent crash during traffic pattern-circling, resulting from mismanagement of fuel. The investigation highlighted that fuel starvation occurred, contributing to the loss of engine power.

Contributing Factors

Several contributing factors were reported by investigators. These included fuel starvation, which led to a complete engine failure affecting both engines. The pilot was found to have attempted operation beyond their experience and ability level, and the person operating the aircraft was noted as unqualified. The flight involved narcotics contraband, and a forced landing off airport on land was necessitated. Additionally, no fuel was present in the right engine fuel system at the time of the accident.