9 fatalities

1971-12-16: Beechcraft 80 Queen Air (HK-844) — Aerotaxi Servicios Aéreos — Armenia-El Edén, Colombia

Armenia-El Edén, ColombiaTakeoff (climb)

On December 16, 1971, a Beechcraft 80 Queen Air (registration HK-844) operated by Aerotaxi Servicios Aéreos was involved in an aviation accident near Armenia-El Edén, Colombia during takeoff. 9 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine failed during the initial climb phase, leading to a loss of control during an attempted return to the airport. 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 1781234572Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into hilly terrain shortly after departing Armenia-El Edén Airport, resulting in the deaths of all nine people on board.

What happened

During a recent flight departing from Armenia-El Edén Airport, an aircraft experienced mechanical difficulties during its initial climb phase. While attempting to manage engine issues, the pilot decided to execute a return to the airfield. During this maneuver, the aircraft became uncontrollable and impacted hilly terrain situated approximately 5 km from the airport.

The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were nine fatalities recorded among the occupants of the plane, with no survivors reported from the crash site.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor leading to the loss of control was an engine failure occurring during the early stages of the climb.

Probable cause

The engine failed during the initial climb phase, leading to a loss of control during an attempted return to the airport.