Aircraft crash into Peak Oiriruma-Viñac during emergency diversion

21 fatalities • Viñac, Peru • Flight

An aircraft crashed into a mountain slope in the Viñac region while attempting to divert following an in-flight engine fire.

What happened

During the cruise phase of flight, the pilot notified air traffic control that one of the engines had ignited into a fire. In response to this emergency, the crew decided to redirect the aircraft type to the closest available airfield.

Shortly after the notification, the plane struck the side of Peak Oiriruma-Viñac in the Viñac region. The impact resulted in a high number of casualties, with 21 fatalities, which included all five members of the flight crew. Emergency responders were able to locate and save 14 survivors from the wreckage.

Findings

The investigation determined that the primary factor leading to the accident was an engine fire occurring while the plane was at cruising altitude.

Probable cause

An engine fire during the cruise phase of flight led to an emergency diversion and subsequent impact with terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1955-10-02 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident near Viñac, Peru?

An aircraft crashed into a mountain slope in the Viñac region while attempting to divert following an in-flight engine fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 1955-10-02 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 21 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1955-10-02 involved a Douglas C-54 Skymaster, registration OB-PAZ-228, operated by Faucett, at Viñac, Peru.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An engine fire during the cruise phase of flight led to an emergency diversion and subsequent impact with terrain.

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