On October 29, 1973, a Britten-Norman Islander (registration N37JA) operated by Compagnie Antillaise de Transport Aérien - CATA was involved in an aviation accident near Mt Gimie, Saint Lucia in flight. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine airplane on a nighttime flight from Castries to Hewanorra struck the slope of Mt. Gimie at 950 meters, killing all four occupants. Wreckage was found a day later.
Accident
While cruising at night on a flight from Castries to Hewanorra, a twin-engine airplane struck the slope of Mount Gimie. The mountain, which rises 950 meters above sea level, is located in the center of the island. The wreckage was located one day after the accident. All four individuals on board were killed.
Aircraft and Operator
The flight was operated by Compagnie Antillaise de Transport Aérien (CATA) on behalf of Sun Island Air Services.
Investigation
Investigators determined that the aircraft had flown into terrain while under control. The official probable cause is controlled flight into terrain.
What happened in the 29 Oct 1973 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Mt Gimie, Saint Lucia?
A twin-engine airplane on a nighttime flight from Castries to Hewanorra struck the slope of Mt. Gimie at 950 meters, killing all four occupants. Wreckage was found a day later.
Were there any fatalities in the 29 Oct 1973 Britten-Norman Islander accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Oct 1973 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration N37JA, operated by Compagnie Antillaise de Transport Aérien - CATA, at Mt Gimie, Saint Lucia.
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