74 fatalities

Fatal Controlled Flight Into Terrain Incident on Mt Choquetanga (CP-698)

Mt Choquetanga, BoliviaFlight

On September 26, 1969, a Douglas DC-6 (registration CP-698) operated by Lloyd Aéreo Boliviano - LAB Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Mt Choquetanga, Bolivia in flight. 74 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty. However, it is believed it was the consequence of a controlled flight into terrain. 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 crashed into Mt Choquetanga at 15,500 feet in marginal weather, killing all 74 occupants. The wreckage was found three days later. Investigators concluded it was likely a controlled flight into terrain.

Incident Overview

During a cruise phase at an altitude of 15,500 feet, the aircraft encountered marginal weather conditions. While navigating this environment, the airplane struck the slope of Mt Choquetanga. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe.

Casualties and Recovery

The accident was fatal for all individuals on board. A total of 74 occupants lost their lives in the crash. Due to the isolated nature of the location, recovery efforts were delayed. Search teams located the wreckage three days after the initial impact.

Investigation Findings

Official investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the collision. While they could not determine the exact cause with absolute certainty, the evidence pointed toward a specific operational failure. The findings indicate that the accident was likely the consequence of a controlled flight into terrain.

Probable cause

The exact cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty. However, it is believed it was the consequence of a controlled flight into terrain.