Emergency landing of twin-engine aircraft near Santa Cruz

No fatalities • Santa Cruz, Bolivia • Takeoff (climb)

A twin-engine aircraft performing a humanitarian mission from Bolivia to Brazil was forced to make an emergency landing near Santa Cruz after experiencing engine issues.

What happened

A twin-engine aircraft was conducting a humanitarian flight originating in Bolivia with a destination of Manaus, Brazil. The flight was carrying a pilot and one passenger. The mission required an initial stop at Santa Cruz-Viru Viru International Airport before proceeding to the Brazilian destination.

Following departure from a private airstrip situated in the outskirts of Santa Cruz, the aircraft experienced a power issue involving one of its engines. In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot attempted to return to the airport for an emergency landing. During this maneuver, the twin-engine aircraft collided with trees and performed a belly landing in a grassy field within the Barrio Lindo area.

Despite the impact, there were zero fatalities and zero injuries reported among the two occupants. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.

Findings

The primary factor in the accident was an engine power issue encountered shortly after takeoff, which necessitated the emergency return to the airfield.

Probable cause

An engine power malfunction during the initial climb phase led to the loss of control and subsequent collision with trees.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2018-10-28 Cessna 340 accident near Santa Cruz, Bolivia?

A twin-engine aircraft performing a humanitarian mission from Bolivia to Brazil was forced to make an emergency landing near Santa Cruz after experiencing engine issues.

Were there any fatalities in the 2018-10-28 Cessna 340 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2018-10-28 involved a Cessna 340, registration N5224J, operated by Gospel Ministries International, at Santa Cruz, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An engine power malfunction during the initial climb phase led to the loss of control and subsequent collision with trees.

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