No fatalities

Emergency Landing of Aircraft Near Mendoza After Takeoff (42-72552)

Mendoza, ArgentinaTakeoff (climb)

On November 12, 1946, a Douglas C-54 Skymaster (registration 42-72552) operated by United States Army Air Forces - USAAF (1941-1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Mendoza, Argentina during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. 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 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into a hillside near Mendoza shortly after takeoff due to an unexpected in-flight issue. All nine occupants were rescued, with seven sustaining serious injuries.

What happened

Shortly after departing from Mendoza-El Plumerillo Airport, the crew encountered an unforeseen situation during the climb-out phase. This event necessitated an immediate attempt at an emergency landing. The aircraft subsequently crash-landed in flames on the slope of Cerro El Pelado, situated approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Mendoza.

All nine individuals on board were successfully rescued from the wreckage. Of these, seven sustained serious injuries as a result of the impact and fire. The crew members were associated with the American Mission in Panama and were conducting an equipment delivery mission to various US Embassies across South America at the time of the incident.