1953-06-15: Lockheed 18 LodeStar (CC-CLD) — LAN Chile - Linea Aérea Nacional de Chile — Copiapó, Chile

7 fatalitiesCopiapó, ChileTakeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed and exploded near Copiapó-Chamonate Airport shortly after departure, resulting in the deaths of all seven people on board.

What happened

During a recent flight departing from Copiapó-Chamonate Airport, an aircraft experienced a critical failure during its initial climb. While ascending, the crew contacted ground personnel to report issues regarding the engines and expressed their intention to perform a return to the airport.

Before the return could be completed, the aircraft entered a rapid descent and struck the terrain near the airfield. The impact was followed by a large-scale explosion. There were seven fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft, with no survivors reported from the crash site.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor leading to the loss of control and subsequent impact was engine problems encountered during the climb phase.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by mechanical issues involving the engines during the takeoff climb.