On October 28, 2018, a Cessna 340 (registration N5224J) operated by Gospel Ministries International was involved in an aviation accident near Santa Cruz, Bolivia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. 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.
A twin-engine aircraft on a humanitarian flight from Bolivia to Brazil experienced engine trouble shortly after takeoff, struck trees, and belly-landed in a grassy area. Both occupants were uninjured.
Incident Overview
A twin-engine aircraft conducting a humanitarian flight from Bolivia to Brazil encountered engine problems shortly after departure from a small private airstrip in the suburbs of Santa Cruz. The flight was scheduled to land at Santa Cruz–Viru Viru International Airport before continuing to Manaus, Brazil.
Events
After takeoff, the pilot reported a power issue with the engines and decided to return for an emergency landing. During the approach, the aircraft struck trees and executed a belly landing in a grassy area in Barrio Lindo.
Aftermath
Both occupants—the pilot and one passenger—were uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair. No other injuries or property damage were reported.