No fatalities

Emergency Field Landing After Takeoff Fire at Mexico City International Airport (XA-FOW)

Mexico City, MexicoTakeoff (climb)

On June 25, 1946, a Douglas DC-4 (registration XA-FOW) operated by Mexicana de Aviación was involved in an aviation accident near Mexico City, Mexico during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A fire outbreak after takeoff rendered a return to the airport impossible, necessitating an emergency landing in a nearby field. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 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

Following a post-takeoff fire, the crew executed an emergency landing in a nearby field near Mexico City. All 47 occupants escaped without injury, but the aircraft was destroyed.

What happened

Shortly after departing Mexico City International Airport, the flight crew reported to air traffic control that a fire had broken out on board. The initial plan was to return to the airport, but the captain determined that a safe landing at the runway was not feasible due to the severity of the situation.

Consequently, the pilot selected an emergency site in a field located a few kilometers from the airport. Upon touchdown, the aircraft slid for several yards before coming to a complete stop. The airframe caught fire immediately and was damaged beyond repair.

Despite the destruction of the aircraft, all 47 occupants managed to evacuate safely. There were no fatalities or injuries reported among the passengers and crew members.

Probable cause

A fire outbreak after takeoff rendered a return to the airport impossible, necessitating an emergency landing in a nearby field.