No fatalities

Aviation Incident: Aircraft Crashes Offshore Near Riohacha-Almirante Padilla Airport (HI-197)

Riohacha, ColombiaLanding (descent or approach)

On September 20, 1980, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration HI-197) operated by Aerolineas Argo was involved in an aviation accident near Riohacha, Colombia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into the sea near Riohacha-Almirante Padilla Airport during approach. All six occupants were rescued, and the plane was destroyed. Reports indicated the flight was illegal and involved in a contraband mission.

Incident Overview and Location Details During an approach to Riohacha-Almirante Padilla Airport, an aircraft crashed into the sea. The accident occurred in unknown circumstances, with the impact site located a few hundred meters offshore from the airport. The specific aircraft type, registration, operator, and exact date of the incident are not provided in the available source material. ## Casualties and Aircraft Condition All six individuals on board the aircraft were successfully rescued following the crash. Despite the survival of all occupants, the aircraft sustained severe damage and was declared beyond repair. The source does not specify the identities of the occupants or the exact nature of the injuries sustained during the incident. ## Operational Context and Reported Violations Following the accident, reports indicated that the flight was operating illegally. The source states that both the aircraft and its crew were involved in a contraband mission at the time of the crash. No further details regarding the specific contraband, the legal status of the crew, or subsequent investigations are included in the provided text.