On February 2, 2002, a Dornier DO.28D Skyservant (registration YV-679C) operated by Transaven - Transporte Aéreo Venezuela was involved in an aviation accident near Los Roques, Venezuela in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft experienced technical malfunctions during flight, leading the crew to perform an emergency ditching. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A twin-engine charter flight from Caracas experienced technical difficulties, resulting in an emergency ditching near Larga Island.
What happened
A twin-engine aircraft was performing a scheduled charter service from Caracas to the Los Roques archipelago when the flight encountered mechanical issues. While flying over Los Roques Island, the crew identified technical problems that necessitated an emergency procedure. To avoid a more catastrophic impact, the crew performed a ditching maneuver off the coast of Larga Island.
The aircraft was carrying a total of 14 occupants, consisting of two pilots and 12 passengers, including a group of seven tourists from Italy. Following the water landing, all 14 individuals were successfully rescued from the scene. However, the impact caused significant damage to the airframe, and the aircraft subsequently sank to a depth of approximately four meters. The vessel was determined to be a total loss.
Findings
The crew encountered technical problems during the flight phase over the islands.
The decision to ditch the aircraft was made to manage the ongoing mechanical issues.
Probable cause
The aircraft experienced technical malfunctions during flight, leading the crew to perform an emergency ditching.