Accident Overview
On 20 April 2001 at 15:55 UTC, a Cessna A185E, registration OB-1408, departed from Islandia bound for Iquitos, Peru. The aircraft was operating under Peruvian regulations RAP 91 in cruise phase. On board were the pilot and four passengers: two adults, one child, and one infant.
Events
While flying near the locality of Pevas, the Cessna was intercepted by a Cessna A-37B of the Peruvian Air Force. The interceptor opened fire with its General Dynamics GAU-2B/A 7.62 mm minigun, striking the aircraft in vital areas of the fuselage. The attack caused major damage and an onboard fire, leading to the aircraft being shot down near the locality of Huanta in Loreto Province.
Injuries and Damage
The accident resulted in the deaths of one adult and one infant. The pilot sustained serious injuries. The aircraft was damaged by gunfire and fire.
Conclusions
The official investigation concluded that the aircraft was shot down as a consequence of bullet impacts from the minigun fired by the intercepting Peruvian Air Force Cessna A-37B. The report also noted non-compliance by the intercepting aircraft crew and involved organizations with ICAO Annex 2, Chapter 3.8, Appendix 2, and Annex A, as well as with the interception procedures outlined in the AIP-PERU manual.