No fatalities

Aircraft crash short of runway at Araraquara Airport (PT-BHZ)

Araraquara, BrazilLanding (descent or approach)

On December 13, 1963, a Rockwell Aero Commander 500 (registration PT-BHZ) operated by Private Brazil was involved in an aviation accident near Araraquara, Brazil during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck power cables while flying at an insufficient altitude during its final approach to the runway. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed during its final approach to Araraquara Airport after striking power lines, resulting in one injury.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight into Araraquara Airport, a twin engine aircraft encountered a critical loss of altitude. While descending toward the runway, the aircraft descended below the safe glide path and made contact with overhead power cables.

This impact caused the aircraft to crash at a location short of the runway threshold. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. Regarding the occupants, the pilot sustained one injury during the accident sequence.

Findings

  • The aircraft was operating at an altitude that was too low for the approach phase.
  • Contact with electrical power lines served as the primary catalyst for the crash.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck power cables while flying at an insufficient altitude during its final approach to the runway.