Aircraft collision with terrain near San Borja Airport

1 fatality • San Borja, Bolivia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a hillside near the Maniqui River during its descent to San Borja Airport, resulting in one fatality.

What happened

During an approach to San Borja Airport, an aircraft struck a hill situated approximately 25 km south of the airfield. The incident occurred while the flight was in the descent phase of operation. The impact took place in the vicinity of the Maniqui River.

As the crew attempted to descend toward the airport, they encountered adverse meteorological conditions. This weather significantly reduced visibility and contributed to the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Findings

The investigation into the crash revealed that the flight crew was unaware that the aircraft's altitude had become insufficient for safe terrain clearance. The combination of poor weather conditions and a failure to maintain adequate altitude relative to the rising terrain led to the collision with the hillside.

Probable cause

The crew failed to maintain sufficient altitude during descent through poor weather conditions, leading to impact with terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1961-09-12 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near San Borja, Bolivia?

An aircraft crashed into a hillside near the Maniqui River during its descent to San Borja Airport, resulting in one fatality.

Were there any fatalities in the 1961-09-12 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1961-09-12 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration CP-687, operated by CAMBA Transportes Aéreos - Comercializadora Aérea Mixta Boliviana, at San Borja, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew failed to maintain sufficient altitude during descent through poor weather conditions, leading to impact with terrain.

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