Aircraft crash during approach to Medellín-Rionegro Airport

4 fatalities • Medellín-José María Córdova (Rionegro), Colombia • Landing (descent or approach)

A cargo flight carrying newspapers crashed approximately 8 km from the runway during its final approach to Medellín-Rionegro Airport.

What happened

During a scheduled cargo operation from Bogotá to Medellín, an aircraft carrying a payload of 18,300 newspapers was performing its descent toward Medellín-Rionegro Airport. The flight was transporting one passenger and three crew members, with a total takeoff weight of 4,970 kilograms.

As the flight crew attempted to intercept the Instrument Landing System (ILS) signals for the final approach, the aircraft experienced operational difficulties. The crew performed several consecutive left and right turns in an attempt to stabilize the approach. During this phase, the aircraft lost control and impacted the ground approximately 8 km short of runway 36. The accident resulted in four fatalities, involving all occupants on board.

Findings

  • The aircraft was unable to successfully intercept the ILS guidance during the descent.
  • Loss of control occurred during the final approach phase following multiple maneuvering attempts.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost control while the crew was attempting to intercept the ILS during the final approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-12-21 Antonov AN-32 accident near Medellín-José María Córdova (Rionegro), Colombia?

A cargo flight carrying newspapers crashed approximately 8 km from the runway during its final approach to Medellín-Rionegro Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 1996-12-21 Antonov AN-32 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-12-21 involved a Antonov AN-32, registration HK-4008X, operated by Selva Colombia - Servicios Aéreos del Vaupés, at Medellín-José María Córdova (Rionegro), Colombia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost control while the crew was attempting to intercept the ILS during the final approach.

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