Fatal aircraft crash near Guatemala City-La Aurora Airport

27 fatalities • Guatemala City-La Aurora, Guatemala • Takeoff (climb)

A cargo flight departing Guatemala City crashed into a residential neighborhood following an engine failure, resulting in significant loss of life on the ground and aboard the aircraft.

What happened

A cargo flight transporting clothing and vegetables was operating a route from San Salvador to Miami, including a scheduled stop at Guatemala City-La Aurora Airport. During the climb phase following departure from the airport, the aircraft experienced the failure of one of its engines. In response to the mechanical issue, the crew declared an emergency.

While the pilot-in-assumed command attempted to execute a left turn to manage the situation, the aircraft became uncontrollable. The aircraft type crashed into a residential area situated approximately 8 km southeast of the airport. The impact resulted in the destruction of the plane and several nearby homes. The accident resulted in 27 fatalities, comprising all three crew members and 24 people on the ground, with several additional individuals sustaining serious injuries.

Findings

The loss of control during the emergency maneuver was precipitated by an engine failure during the initial climb.

Probable cause

The loss of control and subsequent crash were caused by an engine failure during the climb phase following takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1990-05-05 Douglas DC-6 accident near Guatemala City-La Aurora, Guatemala?

A cargo flight departing Guatemala City crashed into a residential neighborhood following an engine failure, resulting in significant loss of life on the ground and aboard the aircraft.

Were there any fatalities in the 1990-05-05 Douglas DC-6 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 27 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1990-05-05 involved a Douglas DC-6, registration N84BL, operated by Aerial Transit Company, at Guatemala City-La Aurora, Guatemala.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of control and subsequent crash were caused by an engine failure during the climb phase following takeoff.

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