What happened
A charter flight departed from Villavicencio-La Vanguardia Airport bound for Mitú, carrying a total of 19 people, including two pilots and 17 passengers. Although the aircraft was only certified for a maximum of 13 passengers, the flight proceeded with a significantly higher load than permitted. Notably, the flight plan submitted by the crew only accounted for six individuals on board.
During the initial climb phase, the right engine experienced an onboard fire. The crew attempted to suppress the flames by activating the fire extinguishing system; however, both extinguishing bottles were found to be empty, leaving the fire uncontrolled. In an attempt to return to the departure airport, the captain executed a right-hand turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft entered a stall and crashed approximately two minutes after departure. The impact and subsequent post-crash fire resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating with 17 passengers, exceeding its legal capacity of 13.
- The fire extinguishing system failed to suppress the engine fire because both fire bottles were empty.
- The accident resulted in 10 fatalities and 9 injuries.