No fatalities

Engine Failures Lead to Accident Near Catamarca Airport (LV-ZBE)

Catamarca, ArgentinaTakeoff (climb)

On March 12, 1954, a Junkers JU.52 (registration LV-ZBE) operated by Government of Argentina was involved in an aviation accident near Catamarca, Argentina during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of two engines after takeoff because the fuel was contaminated with water. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 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

Two of three engines failed shortly after takeoff from Catamarca Airport, causing the aircraft to stall, strike trees, and crash. All four crew were injured; aircraft destroyed. Probable cause: fuel contamination with water.

Accident Details

Shortly after departing from Catamarca Airport, while climbing, two of the aircraft's three engines failed. The loss of thrust led to an aerodynamic stall, after which the aircraft struck trees and crashed into a field located approximately three kilometers from the airport. At the time of the accident, the crew was conducting an aerial spraying mission on behalf of the Argentinian Ministry of Agriculture.

Injuries and Damage

All four crew members onboard sustained injuries. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair as a result of the impact and subsequent ground contact.

Investigation and Probable Cause

The official investigation into the accident determined that the probable cause was the failure of two engines after takeoff because the fuel was contaminated with water.