Aircraft fire following takeoff deviation at Espinal Airfield

No fatalities • Espinal, Colombia • Takeoff (climb)

A small aircraft caught fire after failing to lift off during takeoff from a gravel runway in Espinal, Colombia, resulting in no injuries.

What happened

Following its recovery after being stolen in December 1992, an aircraft was purchased by SEC Colombia. After undergoing a C1 maintenance inspection at its location, the plane was moved to Bogotá-El Dorado Airport. During a subsequent departure from the 1,010-meter gravel runway at Espinal Airfield, the aircraft drifted toward the left side of the runway and failed to achieve flight.

The momentum of the aircraft caused it to overshoot the runway, cross an adjacent road, and travel an additional 275 meters before coming to a stop. Upon this impact, the plane ignited, resulting in a fire that completely destroyed the airframe. Despite the intensity of the flames, all four crew members managed to exit the aircraft without sustaining any injuries.

Findings

  • The aircraft deviated from the runway centerline during the takeoff roll.
  • The aircraft failed to rotate or lift off from the surface of the gravel strip.

Probable cause

The aircraft failed to lift off and drifted left during takeoff, leading to a runway overrun and subsequent fire.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-04-08 Convair CV-580 accident near Espinal, Colombia?

A small aircraft caught fire after failing to lift off during takeoff from a gravel runway in Espinal, Colombia, resulting in no injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1995-04-08 Convair CV-580 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-04-08 involved a Convair CV-580, registration HK-3675, operated by SEC Colombia - Servicio Especializado de Carga Aérea, at Espinal, Colombia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft failed to lift off and drifted left during takeoff, leading to a runway overrun and subsequent fire.

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