7 fatalities

Engine Fire Leads to Stall and Crash near Omaha Airport (TP-203)

Omaha-Eppley, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On December 6, 1978, a Douglas DC-6 (registration TP-203) operated by Mexican Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Mexicana was involved in an aviation accident near Omaha-Eppley, United States of America during takeoff. 7 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine fire for unknown reasons. An oil leak was reported. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an engine fire shortly after takeoff from Omaha-Eppley Airport, stalled, and crashed on a dyke near the runway. The aircraft was destroyed; all seven occupants died. The flight was en route to Mexico after maintenance.

Incident Description

Shortly after departing from Omaha-Eppley Airport, while climbing, the aircraft suffered an engine fire. The airplane stalled and crashed in a large explosion on a dyke located near the runway end. The impact and subsequent fire completely destroyed the aircraft. All seven occupants on board were killed. The flight was en route to Mexico following maintenance performed at Omaha facilities.

Investigation Findings

Investigators determined that the probable cause of the accident was an engine fire of unknown origin. A preexisting oil leak had been reported, though its relationship to the fire was not established. The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, or other operational details.

Conclusion

The accident resulted in the total loss of the aircraft and the deaths of all seven occupants. The official report concluded the engine fire occurred for unknown reasons and noted the presence of an oil leak.