Fatal aircraft accident at Barranquilla-Soledad Airport

4 fatalities • Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed during a second landing attempt at Barranquilla-Soledad Airport following a missed approach due to heavy fog.

What happened

During an approach to the Barranquilla-Soledad Airport, the flight crew encountered significantly reduced visibility caused by dense fog. Because the weather conditions were below established minimums, the runway could not be identified, prompting the captain to initiate a go-around procedure.

While attempting a second approach to land, the aircraft descended into the treetops approximately 1,000 meters before reaching the threshold of runway 04. The impact caused the plane to lose altitude and subsequently crash in flames roughly 300 meters from the runway. The accident resulted in four fatalities, with no survivors among the occupants. The aircraft was completely destroyed upon impact.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the crew proceeded with the approach below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) after having already passed the decision height while operating in weather conditions that did not meet safety requirements.

Probable cause

The flight crew continued their descent below the minimum descent altitude despite being unable to maintain visual contact with the runway due to poor visibility.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1975-09-30 Boeing 727-100 accident near Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia?

An aircraft crashed during a second landing attempt at Barranquilla-Soledad Airport following a missed approach due to heavy fog.

Were there any fatalities in the 1975-09-30 Boeing 727-100 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1975-09-30 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 flight crew continued their descent below the minimum descent altitude despite being unable to maintain visual contact with the runway due to poor visibility.

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