Engine failure and crash of aircraft near Puerto Cabello

2 fatalities • Puerto Cabello, Venezuela • Landing (descent or approach)

A single-engine aircraft crashed into the La Salina lagoon following a dual engine failure during its approach to Puerto Cabello-Bartolomé Salom Airport.

What happened

A flight originating from Los Roques was en route to Valencia when the pilot contacted air traffic control to request a diversion to Puerto Cabello-Bartolomé Salom Airport. While the aircraft was performing its approach from the northern direction of the destination airport, both engines ceased functioning at the same time. This loss of power caused the aircraft to descend rapidly, resulting in a crash into the La Salina lagoon.

Search efforts located the wreckage approximately one kilometer north of the threshold for runway 11. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. Among the five people on board, there were two fatalities, including the pilot, and three injuries sustained by the remaining passengers.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced a simultaneous failure of both engines during the approach phase.
  • The crash occurred in a lagoon area near the airport perimeter.

Probable cause

The simultaneous failure of both engines led to a loss of altitude and the subsequent crash.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2024-04-26 Cessna 340 accident near Puerto Cabello, Venezuela?

A single-engine aircraft crashed into the La Salina lagoon following a dual engine failure during its approach to Puerto Cabello-Bartolomé Salom Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 2024-04-26 Cessna 340 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2024-04-26 involved a Cessna 340, registration YV3112, operated by Renta Auto 2000, at Puerto Cabello, Venezuela.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The simultaneous failure of both engines led to a loss of altitude and the subsequent crash.

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