On October 19, 1971, a Douglas DC-6 (registration HI-146) operated by LADECO Airlines - Línea Aérea del Cobre was involved in an aviation accident near Mendoza, Argentina in flight. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft crashed while attempting an emergency return following the shutdown of the number one engine due to technical problems. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A chartered flight experienced engine failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in a fatal crash on Mount Santa Elena.
What happened
Shortly after departing from Mendoza-El Plumerillo Airport, the crew of an aircraft chartered to Aero Dominicana encountered mechanical difficulties. During the initial climb, the flight crew reported technical issues and received authorization to perform an emergency return to the airfield. To manage the situation, the engine number one was shut down.
During the attempt to return to the airport, the aircraft type struck Mount Santa Elena, which is situated a short distance from the departure site. The impact resulted in the destruction of the plane and the deaths of all three crew members on board.
Findings
The flight was operating under a charter agreement for Aero Dominicana.
The incident occurred during the climb phase following takeoff.
The failure of the first engine necessitated an immediate return to the airport.
Probable cause
The aircraft crashed while attempting an emergency return following the shutdown of the number one engine due to technical problems.