18 fatalities

Fatal Huánuco–Pucallpa Flight Accident (OB-PBH-530)

Tingo María, PeruFlight

On February 4, 1962, a Douglas C-53 Skytrooper (DC-3) (registration OB-PBH-530) operated by Faucett was involved in an aviation accident near Tingo María, Peru in flight. 18 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: For undetermined reasons, the port elevator separated from the aircraft in flight. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A domestic flight from Huánuco to Pucallpa crashed near a hill after the pilot reported bad weather. All 18 occupants were killed when the aircraft was destroyed on impact.

Flight Details and Accident Sequence The aircraft was operating a scheduled domestic flight between Huánuco and Pucallpa, carrying 3 crew members and 15 passengers. At the time of the incident, the aircraft was flying at a height of 15,000 feet and was operating normally until 0955LT. At that time, the pilot reported by radio that the aircraft was returning to Huánuco due to bad weather. No further communication was received from the aircraft. ## Witness Accounts and Impact Eye-witnesses reported seeing the aircraft falling and revolving in its descent. They also stated that they heard the noise of the engines accelerating in a burst of power just before the aircraft struck the ground near the base of a hill. The time of the accident was approximately 1005LT. The aircraft was totally destroyed, and all 18 occupants were killed.

Probable cause

For undetermined reasons, the port elevator separated from the aircraft in flight.