Aircraft impact on Mt Jirishanca in Peru

24 fatalities • Mt Jirishanca, Peru • Flight

An aircraft crashed into the slopes of Mt Jirishanca during cruise flight, resulting in the loss of all 24 people on board.

What happened

During a flight passing approximately 200 km north of Lima-Callao Airport, an aircraft traveling at 18,000 feet collided with the southeast slope of Mt Jirishanca. The mountain peak stands at an elevation of 6,094 meters. At the time of the impact, the aircraft was operating in marginal weather conditions while in the cruise phase of flight.

Following the failure of the plane to reach its intended destination, search and rescue operations were initiated. The debris field from the accident was eventually located on December 4, 1954. The crash resulted in 24 fatalities, accounting for all passengers and crew members on board, including three crew members and 21 civilians.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary reason for the collision was controlled flight into terrain.

Probable cause

The aircraft flew into the side of a mountain while under controlled flight conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1954-11-16 Douglas DC-3 accident near Mt Jirishanca, Peru?

An aircraft crashed into the slopes of Mt Jirishanca during cruise flight, resulting in the loss of all 24 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1954-11-16 Douglas DC-3 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 24 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1954-11-16 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration FAP403, operated by Peruvian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea del Perú, at Mt Jirishanca, Peru.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft flew into the side of a mountain while under controlled flight conditions.

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