24 fatalities

Aircraft Crash During Initial Climb (TAM-62)

Guayaramerín, BoliviaTakeoff (climb)

On December 21, 1989, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration TAM-62) operated by TAM Bolivia - Transporte Aéreo Militar Boliviano was involved in an aviation accident near Guayaramerín, Bolivia during takeoff. 24 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during initial climb for unknown reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into a dense wooded area shortly after takeoff due to an engine failure during initial climb. The accident resulted in 24 fatalities and 4 injuries.

Accident Overview and Immediate Sequence of Events The incident occurred shortly after the aircraft had taken off. While the aircraft was in the initial climb phase, the engine failed. Following the engine failure, the aircraft lost altitude and crashed into a dense wooded area. ## Casualties The crash resulted in significant loss of life and injuries. A total of 24 occupants were killed in the accident, while four others were injured. The fatalities included women and children. ## Official Investigation Findings The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was an engine failure during the initial climb. The specific reasons for the engine failure were not identified in the official findings.