Dual engine failure during approach to Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar Airport

No fatalities • Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar, Venezuela • Landing (descent or approach)

A charter flight operating between Los Roques and Caracas experienced a total loss of power during its final approach, resulting in a ditching at sea.

What happened

A twin-engine charter flight departed from Los Roques, carrying nine passengers and one pilot. During the approach to Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar Airport, the flight crew performed several landing circuits. After being cleared to descend to 1,500 feet, the pilot completed two circuits. Following a subsequent clearance to descend to 1,000 feet, the aircraft performed two additional circuits while positioned seventh in the arrival sequence.

While the aircraft was descending through 600 feet, both engines experienced a simultaneous failure. Unable to maintain flight, the pilot performed a ditching approximately 4 km away from the airport. All 10 occupants were successfully rescued from the wreckage, though 3 injuries were reported. The twin engine airplane sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.

Findings

The primary factor in the accident was the simultaneous loss of power in both engines during the final stages of the approach to the airport.

Probable cause

The simultaneous failure of both engines during the descent phase led to the loss of controlled flight and subsequent ditching.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2009-08-16 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar, Venezuela?

A charter flight operating between Los Roques and Caracas experienced a total loss of power during its final approach, resulting in a ditching at sea.

Were there any fatalities in the 2009-08-16 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2009-08-16 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration YV212T, operated by Islas Aviation Services, at Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar, Venezuela.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The simultaneous failure of both engines during the descent phase led to the loss of controlled flight and subsequent ditching.

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