Aircraft crash near Cutral Có Airport

No fatalities • Cutral Có, Argentina • Flight

An aircraft crashed into hilly terrain shortly after departing Cutral Có Airport, resulting in serious injuries to both crew members.

What happened

Shortly after departing from Cutral Có Airport, the aircraft was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) when it encountered hilly terrain. While navigating the area, the flight was maintained at an altitude that was insufficient for the surrounding topography. During an attempt to perform an evasive maneuver to prevent contact with the ground, the aircraft type struck the crest of a hill with its right wing. This impact led to an aerodynamic stall and a subsequent crash.

Findings

  • The flight was being conducted under VFR conditions.
  • The crew was operating at an altitude that did not provide adequate clearance from the terrain.
  • The impact with the hilltop caused the aircraft to stall.

As a result of the accident, the two pilots sustained serious injuries, and the aircraft was completely destroyed.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck terrain during an attempt to avoid ground contact while flying at an insufficient altitude.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-08-09 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Cutral Có, Argentina?

An aircraft crashed into hilly terrain shortly after departing Cutral Có Airport, resulting in serious injuries to both crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 1996-08-09 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-08-09 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration LV-LNY, operated by Transportes Aéreos Petroleros - TAPSA, at Cutral Có, Argentina.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck terrain during an attempt to avoid ground contact while flying at an insufficient altitude.

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