Aircraft crash near Saint George's-Kindley Field

37 fatalities • Saint George's, Bermuda • Takeoff (climb)

A four-engine aircraft crashed into the ocean shortly after departing from Saint George's-Kindley Field, resulting in 37 fatalities.

What happened

During a nighttime departure from Saint George's-Kindley Field Airport, an Estrella de Oriente four-engine aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall during its initial climb. The aircraft subsequently descended into the ocean, impacting the water approximately 2.5 miles northeast of the runway.

In the aftermath of the impact, rescue operations successfully recovered one crew member and three passengers from the wreckage. However, the accident resulted in 37 fatalities among the remaining occupants on board.

Findings

Official investigations into the crash were unable to establish a definitive cause for the accident. Investigators did note that the aircraft entered a stall while climbing and struck the sea in a tail-first orientation.

Probable cause

The precise reason for the engine failure or stall remains undetermined, though the aircraft impacted the water tail-first following a loss of lift during climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1952-12-06 Douglas DC-4 accident near Saint George's, Bermuda?

A four-engine aircraft crashed into the ocean shortly after departing from Saint George's-Kindley Field, resulting in 37 fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1952-12-06 Douglas DC-4 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 37 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1952-12-06 involved a Douglas DC-4, registration CU-T397, operated by Cubana de Aviación, at Saint George's, Bermuda.

What was the probable cause of the accident?