No fatalities

Cargo Flight Overruns Runway After Smell of Burning in Cabin (N39393)

Pivijay, ColombiaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 21, 1972, a Douglas C-53 Skytrooper (DC-3) (registration N39393) operated by Acme Leasing was involved in an aviation accident near Pivijay, Colombia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Forced landing on airport following smell of burning in flight. The source of the fire could not be determined. It was reported that the crew landed too far down the runway, causing the braking distance to be insufficient. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo flight from Panama City to Oranjestad diverted to Pivijay Airport after a burning smell in cabin. The aircraft overran the 850m runway, struck a fence, and was damaged beyond repair. Both pilots unhurt.

Incident Details

During a cargo flight from Panama City to Oranjestad, Aruba, the crew detected a smell of burning in the cabin. They decided to divert to Pivijay Airport and initiated an emergency landing.

Emergency Landing and Runway Overrun

The aircraft touched down on a runway measuring 850 meters in length. However, it was unable to stop within the remaining distance. It overran the runway, struck a perimeter fence, and came to rest in an adjacent field.

Outcome

Both pilots were unhurt in the incident. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.

Investigation

Official findings identified the probable cause as a forced landing on an airport following a smell of burning in flight. The specific source of the fire could not be determined. It was reported that the crew landed too far down the runway, resulting in insufficient braking distance.