On September 22, 1980, a Convair CV-240 (registration ZP-CDO) operated by Private Paraguay was involved in an aviation accident near Okeechobee, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with trees and subsequent crash after the crew selected an unsuitable terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Aircraft struck trees and crashed during a nighttime landing attempt on a cow pasture near Okeechobee. Both occupants were not recovered; injuries presumed. Over 5,000 pounds of marijuana was found scattered and later burned by authorities.
Incident Details
The crew attempted to land by night on a cow pasture with portable lights at each end near Okeechobee. The airplane struck trees and crashed. Both occupants were not recovered and injuries presumed.
Cargo and Investigation
This was an illegal contraband flight from Central or South America, as a load of more than 5,000 pounds of marijuana was found scattered around the wreckage. The marijuana was later burned by the Okeechobee County Sheriff's Department.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official probable cause was the collision with trees and subsequent crash after the crew selected an unsuitable terrain. The following contributing factors were reported: the crew misjudged distance and speed, and failed to initiate a go-around.