On September 30, 1975, a Boeing 727-100 (registration HK-1272) operated by Avianca was involved in an aviation accident near Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew continued the approach below the minimum descent altitude after passing the decision height in below weather minimums. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 16 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
On approach in fog, crew performed a go-around after failing to locate the runway. On a second attempt, the aircraft struck tree tops 1,000 meters short of Runway 04 and crashed 300 meters short, killing all four occupants.
Accident Overview
The accident occurred during approach to Barranquilla-Soledad Airport. The crew encountered poor visibility due to foggy conditions, with visibility below weather minima. Unable to locate the runway, the captain decided to perform a go-around. Minutes later, during a second landing attempt, the crew failed to realize the aircraft's altitude was too low. The airplane struck tree tops approximately 1,000 meters short of the threshold of Runway 04. Subsequent to the impact, the aircraft lost height and crashed in flames 300 meters short of the runway. The aircraft was totally destroyed. All four occupants were killed.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was that the crew continued the approach below the minimum descent altitude after passing the decision height in below weather minimums.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 30 Sept 1975 Boeing 727-100 accident near Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia?
On approach in fog, crew performed a go-around after failing to locate the runway. On a second attempt, the aircraft struck tree tops 1,000 meters short of Runway 04 and crashed 300 meters short, killing all four occupants.
Were there any fatalities in the 30 Sept 1975 Boeing 727-100 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Sept 1975 involved a Boeing 727-100, registration HK-1272, operated by Avianca, at Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The crew continued the approach below the minimum descent altitude after passing the decision height in below weather minimums.
