Aircraft crash in San Gerardo district resulting in fatalities

3 fatalities • Bucaramanga-Gomez Niño, Colombia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft veered off a wet runway during landing in heavy rain, crashing into residential buildings and causing multiple deaths.

What happened

During an approach conducted amidst intense rainfall, the crew successfully landed the aircraft on runway 10. The touchdown occurred approximately 469 meters beyond the runway threshold. Due to the highly saturated condition of the runway surface, the plane began to veer toward the left side of the airfield following contact with the ground.

After traveling a distance of 312 meters, the aircraft exited the paved surface and entered soft terrain. The sequence ended when the plane struck several residential structures located within the San Gerardo district. While all 44 occupants on board were successfully evacuated, seven individuals sustained injuries during the incident. The aircraft was destroyed in the crash.

On the ground, the impact with houses resulted in a tragedy involving three children, aged 7, 11, and 12, who were killed.

Probable cause

The loss of directional control following touchdown was caused by aquaplaning on the saturated runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1973-07-05 Avro 748 accident near Bucaramanga-Gomez Niño, Colombia?

An aircraft veered off a wet runway during landing in heavy rain, crashing into residential buildings and causing multiple deaths.

Were there any fatalities in the 1973-07-05 Avro 748 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1973-07-05 involved a Avro 748, registration HK-1408, operated by Avianca, at Bucaramanga-Gomez Niño, Colombia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of directional control following touchdown was caused by aquaplaning on the saturated runway.

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