59 fatalities

1960-02-05: Douglas DC-4 (CP-609) — Lloyd Aéreo Boliviano - LAB Airlines — Cochabamba, Bolivia

Cochabamba, BoliviaTakeoff (climb)

On February 5, 1960, a Douglas DC-4 (registration CP-609) operated by Lloyd Aéreo Boliviano - LAB Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Cochabamba, Bolivia during takeoff. 59 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Investigators believe it is probable that the engine would have exploded due to its excessive contribution. 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 1781246831Data APIEditorial standards

Minutes after takeoff from Cochabamba-Jorge Wilsterman Airport, the captain reported an engine explosion. The aircraft lost control and crashed in Laguna Huanacota. A two-year-old girl was seriously injured; the other 58 occupants were killed. The girl later died from her injuries.

Accident

Shortly after departing from Cochabamba-Jorge Wilsterman Airport, while climbing to an altitude of 9,000 feet, the captain informed air traffic control that an engine had exploded. The aircraft then went out of control and crashed into Laguna Huanacota, approximately 13 kilometers south of the airport.

Casualties

Among the 59 occupants, a two-year-old girl sustained serious injuries. All 58 other people on board were killed. While being evacuated to a hospital, the sole survivor succumbed to her injuries.

Investigation

The official investigation into the accident produced findings regarding the probable cause. Investigators believe it is probable that the engine exploded due to its excessive contribution. Additionally, at the time of the accident, the total weight of the aircraft exceeded the maximum allowable take-off weight, which was identified as a factor contributing to the engine explosion.