Aircraft crash in Darién Province results in 16 fatalities

16 fatalities • Panama, Panama • Flight

A flight traveling from Panama City to a remote airstrip crashed into a mountainside in the Darién Province, killing everyone on board.

What happened

A flight originating from Panama City-Tocumen was en route to a secluded airstrip situated within the Darién Province, close to the Colombian border. The aircraft was carrying a total of 16 people, consisting of two pilots and 14 passengers, which included both military members and civilians.

During the transit over the Darién region, the flight encountered worsening weather conditions. While navigating through these atmospheric changes, the aircraft type struck a mountain slope. Following the failure of the aircraft to reach its intended destination, search and rescue operations were launched to locate the missing vessel. The wreckage was eventually discovered approximately two weeks after the disappearance.

Findings

  • All 16 fatalities occurred during the impact.
  • The crash was precipitated by deteriorating weather conditions while flying over mountainous terrain.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a mountain slope due to worsening weather conditions during flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1988-01-31 Casa 212 Aviocar accident near Panama, Panama?

A flight traveling from Panama City to a remote airstrip crashed into a mountainside in the Darién Province, killing everyone on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1988-01-31 Casa 212 Aviocar accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 16 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1988-01-31 involved a Casa 212 Aviocar, registration FAP-215, operated by Panamanian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Panameña, at Panama, Panama.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck a mountain slope due to worsening weather conditions during flight.

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