No fatalities

Culebra Island Airport Accident During Go-Around (N589JA)

Culebra Island, Puerto RicoLanding (descent or approach)

On December 21, 1971, a Britten-Norman Islander (registration N589JA) operated by Vieques Air Link was involved in an aviation accident near Culebra Island, Puerto Rico during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was the result of poor judgment on part of the pilot. Factors: delayed in initiating go-around, unfavorable wind conditions, evasive maneuver to avoid collision, downdrafts, updrafts, downwind approach. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A twin engine aircraft on approach to Culebra Island Airport executed a go-around after a hard landing, struck a house, and crashed. The pilot and a passenger were seriously injured; six others slightly injured.

Approach and Landing

On approach to Culebra Island Airport, the pilot encountered unfavorable weather conditions and decided to land on runway 13 instead of runway 31. The twin engine aircraft passed over the last hill before touching down. The landing was hard, and the airplane bounced several times.

Go-Around and Collision

The pilot initiated a go-around maneuver. During the go-around, the airplane struck a house and crashed.

Occupant Injuries

The pilot and a passenger sustained serious injuries. Six other occupants received slight injuries.

Probable Cause and Factors

The official probable cause stated that the accident was the result of poor judgment on the part of the pilot. The following factors were reported: delayed initiation of the go-around, unfavorable wind conditions, an evasive maneuver to avoid collision, downdrafts, updrafts, and a downwind approach.