Aircraft crash near Turrialba Volcano

6 fatalities • Mt Turrialba, Costa Rica • Flight

A flight traveling from Managua to Panama City crashed into the slopes of a volcano in Costa Rica, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

A special flight operating between Managua and Panama City crashed while approaching San José, Costa Rica. The aircraft was transporting three crew members and three civilian passengers at the time of the accident.

During the approach phase, the area experienced severe weather characterized by heavy rainfall and thunderstorm activity. Due to these deteriorating conditions and significantly reduced visibility, the aircraft type struck the side of the Turrialba volcano, which sits at an elevation of 3,340 meters. The impact caused the plane to disintegrate upon hitting the terrain.

There were six fatalities recorded in the accident, as all occupants on board perished during the crash.

Findings

The investigation determined that the primary factor leading to the accident was controlled flight into terrain occurring amidst adverse meteorological conditions.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the side of a volcano during an approach in heavy rain and thunderstorm activity.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-12-04 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Mt Turrialba, Costa Rica?

A flight traveling from Managua to Panama City crashed into the slopes of a volcano in Costa Rica, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-12-04 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-12-04 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 411, operated by Nicaraguayan Air Force - Fuerza Aérea - Ejercito de Nicaragua, at Mt Turrialba, Costa Rica.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the side of a volcano during an approach in heavy rain and thunderstorm activity.

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