13 fatalities

Aircraft Crash at San Luis Acatlán Aerodrome (XA-DOQ)

San Luis Acatlán, MexicoTakeoff (climb)

On November 27, 1951, a Douglas DC-2 (registration XA-DOQ) operated by Lineas Aéreas Unidas (LAUSA) was involved in an aviation accident near San Luis Acatlán, Mexico during takeoff. 13 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 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

An aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from San Luis Acatlán Aerodrome, killing 13 people and injuring 8. The incident occurred in darkness with insufficient visibility after a delayed departure due to cattle on the runway.

Incident Overview and Casualties An aircraft struck an obstacle and crashed during its initial climb shortly after departing from San Luis Acatlán Aerodrome. The accident resulted in the deaths of both pilots and eleven passengers. Additionally, eight other occupants sustained injuries. ## Operational Context and Contributing Factors Earlier that day, the crew encountered cattle on the grassy runway while approaching San Luis Acatlán Airfield. The presence of the animals required time for local residents to clear the runway, which delayed the aircraft's landing. Consequently, when the crew initiated the takeoff run toward Acapulco, it was already dark. The investigation determined that visibility conditions at the time of the takeoff were apparently insufficient.