Emergency landing following engine malfunction

No fatalities • La Paz-El Alto, Bolivia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced engine issues shortly after takeoff, resulting in an emergency belly landing with no injuries reported.

What happened

During the initial climb phase of flight, immediately following liftoff, the crew began the process of retracting the landing gear. During this period, the aircraft encountered technical difficulties involving one of the engines.

In response to the mechanical failure, the captain initiated an emergency procedure to return to the airfield. While attempting the return, the aircraft was unable to complete a standard landing and instead impacted the runway on its belly. The aircraft eventually came to a complete stop following the impact.

Findings

  • There were zero fatalities and zero injuries among the three occupants onboard.
  • The incident was characterized by engine problems of undetermined origin.

Probable cause

The engine malfunctioned for unknown reasons during the takeoff climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1988-09-09 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident near La Paz-El Alto, Bolivia?

An aircraft experienced engine issues shortly after takeoff, resulting in an emergency belly landing with no injuries reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 1988-09-09 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1988-09-09 involved a Douglas C-54 Skymaster, registration CP-1653, operated by Frigorifico Reyes (FRI REYES), at La Paz-El Alto, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine malfunctioned for unknown reasons during the takeoff climb.

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