Engine failure and crash near Catamarca Airport

No fatalities • Catamarca, Argentina • Takeoff (climb)

An agricultural aircraft crashed following a double engine failure during its initial climb from Catamarca Airport.

What happened

During an agricultural spraying mission conducted for the Argentinian Ministry of Agriculture, an aircraft experienced a critical loss of power shortly after departing from Catamarca Airport. While the aircraft was in its climbing phase, two of its three engines ceased functioning. This loss of propulsion led to an aerodynamic stall, causing the plane to descend into a field situated approximately three kilometers from the runway.

The descent resulted in the aircraft striking trees before coming to rest in the field. The impact caused significant damage to the airframe, rendering it a total loss. All four crew members on board sustained injuries during the accident, though no fatalities were reported.

Findings

Investigations into the incident determined that the primary reason for the simultaneous failure of two engines was water contamination within the fuel supply.

Probable cause

The engine failures were caused by water present in the aircraft's fuel.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1954-03-12 Junkers JU.52 accident near Catamarca, Argentina?

An agricultural aircraft crashed following a double engine failure during its initial climb from Catamarca Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 1954-03-12 Junkers JU.52 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1954-03-12 involved a Junkers JU.52, registration LV-ZBE, operated by Government of Argentina, at Catamarca, Argentina.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failures were caused by water present in the aircraft's fuel.

Loading the flight search…