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6 fatalities

Charter Flight Crashes into Mt Piedra Gorda, Killing All Six Occupants (YV2129)

Valera, VenezuelaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 1, 2009, a Beechcraft 100 King Air (registration YV2129) operated by Command Air - Venezuela was involved in an aviation accident near Valera, Venezuela during landing or approach. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain after the crew started the descent prematurely. The lack of visibility was considered as a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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

A twin-engine aircraft on a charter flight from Charallave to Valera crashed into Mt Piedra Gorda while descending in IMC. All six occupants were killed. Investigation cited controlled flight into terrain due to premature descent and lack of visibility.

Accident Overview

A twin-engine aircraft conducting a charter flight from Charallave-Óscar Machado Zuloaga Airport to Valera crashed while descending toward its destination. The aircraft carried four passengers and two pilots. During the descent to Valera-Carvajal Airport, the flight encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). At an altitude of 9,650 feet, the aircraft impacted the slope of Mt Piedra Gorda, situated approximately 35 kilometers from the airport. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate. The wreckage was discovered the following late afternoon. All six occupants were killed in the accident.

Investigation and Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident. The event was classified as a controlled flight into terrain (CFIT). According to investigators, the crew initiated the descent prematurely. Additionally, the lack of visibility due to IMC conditions was cited as a contributing factor. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or operator were provided in the source.

Controlled flight into terrain

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