What happened
During a flight originating from Guasipati, the aircraft was instructed to begin its descent toward Charallave-Óscar Machado Zuloaga Airport. As the pilot reached an altitude of 6,000 feet, air traffic control provided clearance for an approach to runway 10. At this time, the flight crew was notified that the destination airport was experiencing adverse weather characterized by heavy rainfall.
While performing the short final phase of the approach, the aircraft struck hilly terrain located approximately 600 meters southwest of the runway 10 threshold. The impact occurred at an elevation below the airport's official altitude. The force of the collision caused the aircraft to disintegrate. There were nine fatalities among the occupants of the plane.
Findings
- The flight was operating in heavy rain during the approach phase.
- The aircraft struck terrain situated below the airport elevation during the final stages of landing.