Aircraft crash in Urrao region, Colombia

4 fatalities • Urrao, Colombia • Flight

A cargo flight operated by Vicair crashed into a mountainside near Mt Cerro Pelado during a night flight in heavy rain.

What happened

On January 10, 1966, a cargo aircraft was performing a nighttime transport mission to Ecuador, transporting a shipment of cigarettes. During the flight, the plane encountered intense rainfall and subsequently collided with a mountain slope in the vicinity of Urrao. Following the failure of the aircraft to reach its intended destination, search and rescue operations were initiated.

The wreckage was eventually located on the slopes of Mt Cerro Pelado, situated between the towns of Frontino and Urrao. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were four fatalities among the occupants of the flight.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the aircraft was being operated by Vicair under a lease arrangement involving Atlantic Aircraft Corporation and Associated Aviation Industries. The primary factor contributing to the accident was controlled flight into terrain during adverse weather conditions.

Probable cause

The accident resulted from the crew flying the aircraft into mountainous terrain during heavy rain and nighttime operations.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1965-11-23 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Urrao, Colombia?

A cargo flight operated by Vicair crashed into a mountainside near Mt Cerro Pelado during a night flight in heavy rain.

Were there any fatalities in the 1965-11-23 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1965-11-23 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration N1210W, operated by Vicair, at Urrao, Colombia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident resulted from the crew flying the aircraft into mountainous terrain during heavy rain and nighttime operations.

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