What happened
On August 24, 2025, a Cessna TU2/206F, registration HK1833, was performing a specialized air ambulance mission from Tiquié Aerodrome (SKTE) to Mitú Airport (SKMU) in the Vaupés department of Colombia. The flight was part of a medical evacuation service, transporting a patient, a medical professional, and an accompanying person, alongside the pilot.
After an initial leg of the journey from César Gaviria Trujillo Airport (SKPD) to Tiquié, the aircraft waited for approximately one hour due to unfavorable weather conditions at the destination. The flight departed Tiquié at 11:35 HLC. Approximately ten minutes into the flight, all communication with the aircraft was lost, and satellite tracking became unavailable. The aircraft subsequently crashed near the settlement of Belén de Inambú. The impact resulted in the aircraft being overturned and a post-crash fire. There were 4 fatalities.
The investigation
The technical investigation was initiated by the DIACC following notification of the accident. Due to local security and public order issues in the area, investigators were unable to access the crash site directly. Instead, a representative from the aircraft operator was tasked with conducting photographic documentation and evidence collection under the direction of the lead investigator.
Field inspections revealed that the aircraft's right main landing gear tire had detached and was found approximately 15 meters from the wreckage, while a 50 cm section of the right wingtip had also broken off. The wreckage showed significant damage from the post-crash fire, and impact marks were noted on the leading edges of the wings not consumed by flames.
Findings
- The aircraft encountered unplanned flight into IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions).
- The flight encountered turbulence during the mission.
- The aircraft sustained severe damage due to the impact and subsequent fire.