Aircraft accident at Rio de Janeiro-Galeão Airport

2 fatalities • Rio de Janeiro-Galeão, Brazil • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into the sea during its final approach to runway 14 at Rio de Janeiro-Galeão Airport, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

During the final approach phase toward runway 14 at Rio de Janeiro-Galeão Airport, an aircraft descended to approximately 200 feet before the nose pitched downward. The plane subsequently impacted the surface of the sea. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. Out of the four people on board, there were two fatalities and two crew members were successfully rescued from the wreckage.

Findings

Investigations into the accident revealed that the aircraft was operating with the speed brake lever positioned at 45° and the inboard spoilers in a deactivated state. It was observed that the switch cover for the spoilers had been left open. The investigation concluded that the inadvertent activation of the inboard spoiler occurred after the copilot closed the spoiler switch cover, which triggered the aerodynamic pitch-down motion leading to the crash.

Probable cause

The accidental activation of the inboard spoilers caused by closing the switch cover during the final approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1973-06-09 Boeing 707 accident near Rio de Janeiro-Galeão, Brazil?

An aircraft crashed into the sea during its final approach to runway 14 at Rio de Janeiro-Galeão Airport, resulting in two fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1973-06-09 Boeing 707 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1973-06-09 involved a Boeing 707, registration PP-VLJ, operated by VARIG - Viação Aérea Rio Grandense, at Rio de Janeiro-Galeão, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accidental activation of the inboard spoilers caused by closing the switch cover during the final approach.

Loading the flight search…