Surface-to-air missile attack destroys supply aircraft near Honduras

9 fatalities • San Carlos, Nicaragua • Flight

A four-engine cargo aircraft carrying supplies and ten people was destroyed by two surface-to-air missiles during a mission to Nicaragua.

What happened

A supply mission departing from Swan Island Airport (Islas del Cisne), Honduras, ended in a fatal mid-air attack. The four-engine aircraft was transporting weapons, ammunition, food, and clothing intended for rebel forces in Nicaragua. On board were ten individuals.

During the flight, the crew successfully released 11 pallets of cargo. Following this drop, the aircraft was struck by a surface-to-air missile that impacted one of its right-side engines. Despite the damage, the plane remained airborne for approximately 30 km. However, a second surface-to-air missile strike subsequently brought the aircraft down. The crash occurred roughly four minutes after the initial engine hit. The accident resulted in nine fatalities and one injury.

Findings

The destruction of the aircraft was caused by two separate surface-to-air missile strikes during the mission.

Probable cause

The aircraft was downed by two consecutive hits from surface-to-air missiles.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1988-01-23 Douglas DC-6 accident near San Carlos, Nicaragua?

A four-engine cargo aircraft carrying supplies and ten people was destroyed by two surface-to-air missiles during a mission to Nicaragua.

Were there any fatalities in the 1988-01-23 Douglas DC-6 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 9 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1988-01-23 involved a Douglas DC-6, operated by Contras Air Force - Fuerza Aérea de Contras, at San Carlos, Nicaragua.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was downed by two consecutive hits from surface-to-air missiles.

Loading the flight search…