On January 31, 1992, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan (registration HP-1191XI) operated by Aero Taxi - Panama was involved in an aviation accident near Turbo, Colombia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight was diverted to a different destination due to a hijacking involving four individuals. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A flight traveling between Panama City and El Porvenir Island was diverted by four hijackers, resulting in a forced landing and multiple injuries.
What happened
While operating a flight from Panama City toward El Porvenir Island, the aircraft was intercepted by four individuals who took control of the cabin. The hijackers compelled the pilot to alter the original flight plan, demanding that the plane be redirected to Turbo, Colombia.
During the unauthorized diversion, the aircraft was forced to land at a secluded airstrip. Upon reaching this remote location, all four hijackers exited the plane and fled into the surrounding area; their whereabouts following the incident remain unknown. While there were no fatalities reported in the event, all other occupants sustained injuries during the hijacking and subsequent landing. Following the incident, the aircraft was removed from active service.
Findings
The primary factor in the diversion of the flight was the unauthorized takeover of the aircraft by armed hijackers.
Probable cause
The flight was diverted to a different destination due to a hijacking involving four individuals.