Aircraft crash near San Vicente del Caguán-Eduardo Falla Solano Airport

19 fatalities • San Vicente del Caguán, Colombia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed into a wooded area shortly after takeoff from San Vicente del Caguán, resulting in 19 fatalities and two serious injuries.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from runway 14 at San Vicente del Caguán-Eduardo Falla Solano Airport, the aircraft experienced a stall. The plane impacted a forested area situated approximately 800 meters beyond the end of the runway, where it subsequently caught fire. The accident resulted in 19 fatalities and left two passengers with serious injuries.

Findings

Investigations into the crash identified two primary contributing factors. First, the aircraft suffered an engine failure shortly after rotation. Second, the plane was carrying an excess load of 311 kilograms at the time of the incident.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an engine failure occurring during takeoff while the aircraft was operating significantly above its maximum weight limit.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-10-17 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near San Vicente del Caguán, Colombia?

An aircraft crashed into a wooded area shortly after takeoff from San Vicente del Caguán, resulting in 19 fatalities and two serious injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-10-17 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 19 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-10-17 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration HK-595, operated by Aerolineas TAO (Taxi Aéreo Opita), at San Vicente del Caguán, Colombia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by an engine failure occurring during takeoff while the aircraft was operating significantly above its maximum weight limit.

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