Cessna Caravan Excursion at Cupica Aerodrome Following Obstacle Collision

Casualties unknown • Bahía Solano, CO

A state-operated Cessna 208 veered off the runway at Cupica Aerodrome after striking vegetation, resulting in minor injuries to the crew.

What happened

On July 31, 2024, at approximately 15:06 UTC, a Cessna 208 (registration HK-3200G) was performing a civil state flight from Rionegro to the Cupica Aerodrome (SKCP) in Chocó, Colombia. The aircraft was transporting two officials along with a two-person crew under visual flight rules (VFR).

During the landing phase on runway 25, the aircraft made contact with the runway at a ground speed of approximately 74 knots. Following touchdown, the right side of the aircraft struck trees and vegetation located within the safety zone. Despite efforts by the crew to maintain control, the aircraft exited the runway on its right side and came to a stop in the surrounding terrain. The impact caused significant damage to the right wing, including a 90 cm section sheared off near the tip, damage to the flaps, ailerons, and fuel ventilation lines. The crew and passengers, totaling four occupants, sustained minor injuries during the event. No post-accident fire occurred.

The investigation

The GRIAA investigation examined the operational, organizational, and infrastructural factors surrounding the excursion. Investigators analyzed flight data from the Garmin GTN 750, reviewed maintenance records, and evaluated the physical characteristics of the Cupica Aerodrome. The investigation focused on the crew's recent experience at the site, the aircraft's dispatch planning, and the suitability of the runway dimensions for the aircraft's wingspan.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the aircraft's excursion from the runway after striking obstacles, driven by the use of a runway width that was incompatible with the aircraft's wingspan and the presence of vegetation within the safety area.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2024-07-31 208 accident near Bahía Solano, CO?

A state-operated Cessna 208 veered off the runway at Cupica Aerodrome after striking vegetation, resulting in minor injuries to the crew.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2024-07-31 involved a 208, registration HK3200, at Bahía Solano, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the aircraft's excursion from the runway after striking obstacles, driven by the use of a runway width that was incompatible with the aircraft's wingspan and the presence of vegetation within the safety area.

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