On November 21, 1974, a Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I (registration HK-646-W) operated by Private Colombian was involved in an aviation accident near Bogotá-El Dorado, Colombia during landing or approach. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control on approach after the pilot suffered a heart attack. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A twin-engine airplane departing Cali for Bogotá crashed on final approach after the pilot suffered a heart attack. All six occupants were killed and the aircraft destroyed.
Accident Details
The twin-engine airplane departed Cali-Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport at 1742 local time on a flight to Bogotá-El Dorado Airport. On board were five passengers and a pilot. As the flight neared its destination and commenced the final approach, a passenger alerted air traffic control that the pilot had suffered a heart attack and was attempting to land the airplane. Shortly after this communication, the airplane entered an uncontrolled dive and struck the ground, erupting in flames. The impact and subsequent fire completely destroyed the aircraft. All six individuals on board—the pilot and five passengers—sustained fatal injuries and were killed in the accident.
Investigation and Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was loss of control on approach after the pilot suffered a heart attack.
What happened in the 21 Nov 1974 Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I accident near Bogotá-El Dorado, Colombia?
A twin-engine airplane departing Cali for Bogotá crashed on final approach after the pilot suffered a heart attack. All six occupants were killed and the aircraft destroyed.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Nov 1974 Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Nov 1974 involved a Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I, registration HK-646-W, operated by Private Colombian, at Bogotá-El Dorado, Colombia.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of control on approach after the pilot suffered a heart attack.
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