24 fatalities

Crashed Shortly After Takeoff from Tikal Airport (TG-HTM)

Tikal, GuatemalaTakeoff (climb)

On December 29, 1974, a Lockheed 18 LodeStar (registration TG-HTM) operated by Erwin Ortiz was involved in an aviation accident near Tikal, Guatemala during takeoff. 24 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the accident was not determined. However, the assumption that control was lost following an in-flight fire was not ruled out. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane crashed into a mountain slope minutes after departing Tikal Airport, killing all 24 occupants, including 21 American citizens returning to Guatemala City. The investigation could not determine the exact cause but did not rule out an in-flight fire.

Accident

Minutes after departing Tikal Airport, the airplane lost control while climbing and struck the slope of a nearby mountain. The impact destroyed the aircraft, and all 24 individuals on board were killed. Among the victims were 21 American citizens who were returning to Guatemala City.

Investigation

The official investigation into the accident was unable to determine a definitive cause. However, investigators stated that the possibility of an in-flight fire leading to loss of control could not be excluded.

Aftermath

The crash site was located on the mountainous terrain near the airport. Recovery efforts were conducted, and the remains of the victims were repatriated. The incident prompted discussions on aviation safety in the region, though no specific recommendations were included in the final report.

Probable cause

The exact cause of the accident was not determined. However, the assumption that control was lost following an in-flight fire was not ruled out.