5 fatalities

1998-12-22: Antonov AN-32 (HK-3930X) — Selva Colombia - Servicios Aéreos del Vaupés — Medellín-José María Córdova (Rionegro), Colombia

Medellín-José María Córdova (Rionegro), ColombiaLanding (descent or approach)

On December 22, 1998, an Antonov AN-32 (registration HK-3930X) operated by Selva Colombia - Servicios Aéreos del Vaupés was involved in an aviation accident near Medellín-José María Córdova (Rionegro), Colombia during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain after the crew decided to continue the approach in below minima weather conditions due to thick fog until the aircraft impacted terrain. The crew failed to initiate a go-around procedure to divert to a suitable terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781204669Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo flight from Bogotá to Medellín crashed short of the runway after encountering thick fog. All five occupants were killed.

Accident Overview

A cargo aircraft operating a flight from Bogotá-El Dorado Airport to Medellín-José María Córdova Airport crashed during its approach. The aircraft was carrying a crew of three, two passengers, and a load of newspapers.

Approach and Impact

As the flight neared Medellín, the crew encountered poor weather conditions with reduced visibility due to thick fog. While on short final approach to runway 36, the aircraft descended too low, struck trees, and impacted terrain approximately one kilometer short of the runway. The collision resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and the deaths of all five occupants.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident was controlled flight into terrain. The crew continued the approach despite weather conditions falling below established minima for the approach procedure, ultimately leading to impact with terrain. Additionally, the crew failed to execute a go-around maneuver to divert to a suitable alternate airport.

Aftermath

No further details about the aircraft or operator were released in the official report.