1951-11-27: Douglas DC-2 (XA-DOQ) — Lineas Aéreas Unidas (LAUSA) — San Luis Acatlán, Mexico

13 fatalitiesSan Luis Acatlán, MexicoTakeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed during its initial climb from San Luis Acatlán Aerodrome, resulting in thirteen fatalities and eight injuries.

What happened

During a flight departing from San Luis Acatlán Aerodrome, an aircraft entered its initial climb phase before striking an obstacle and crashing. The accident resulted in 13 fatalities, including both pilots, and 11 passengers. Additionally, 8 occupants sustained injuries during the impact.

Earlier on the same day, the crew had been preparing to land at San Luis Acatlán Airfield when they encountered livestock on the grassy runway. The presence of cattle required local residents to intervene to clear the runway, which caused a delay in the flight schedule. Consequently, the subsequent departure for Acapulco took place after nightfall.

Findings

Investigations into the crash indicated that the takeoff occurred under conditions of insufficient visibility due to the darkness following the previous delays.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by insufficient visibility during a nighttime takeoff following a delay caused by livestock on the runway.