9 fatalities

Engine Problems Lead to Crash Near Ponta de Pedras, Nine Killed (PT-JXL)

Ponta de Pedras, BrazilFlight

On October 31, 1978, a Cessna 402 (registration PT-JXL) operated by Taxi Aéreo Kovacs was involved in an aviation accident near Ponta de Pedras, Brazil in flight. 9 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane on a taxi flight from Belém to Almeirim experienced engine problems shortly after takeoff. The pilot attempted to divert but lost control and crashed near Ponta de Pedras, killing all nine occupants.

Accident Overview

A twin-engine airplane operating a taxi flight from Belém-Júlio Cesar Ribeiro Airport to Almeirim crashed near Ponta de Pedras, approximately 45 km west of Belém. The aircraft was carrying one pilot and eight passengers for the Brazilian company Embratel. All nine occupants were killed in the accident.

Sequence of Events

The airplane departed Belém-Júlio Cesar Ribeiro Airport on a taxi flight destined for Almeirim. Few minutes after takeoff, the pilot informed air traffic control about engine problems and elected to divert to Abaetetuba Airport for an emergency landing. Shortly thereafter, the airplane went out of control and crashed in a huge explosion near Ponta de Pedras. The accident occurred while the aircraft was still in the vicinity of the departure airport.

Aftermath

The crash resulted in the destruction of the aircraft and the deaths of all nine individuals on board. No survivors were reported. The crash site was near Ponta de Pedras, about 45 km west of Belém. The aircraft was on a taxi flight for the Brazilian company Embratel. The purpose of a taxi flight typically involves the transport of personnel or equipment for operational reasons.