What happened
Following a flight arriving from Medellin, a DC-3 arrived at Condoto at 16:48 GMT. During the ground interval, the aircraft was loaded with nine metal drums containing graphite oil, weighing a total of 2214 kg. At the time of departure, the aircraft's takeoff weight was recorded at 11045 kg, which was 1157 kg under its maximum takeoff weight.
After departing from runway 27 for the return trip to Medellin, the pilot contacted air traffic control approximately five minutes later to request an immediate return to Condoto. The reason provided for this request was that the cargo had been improperly distributed within the aircraft.
The flight was authorized to land on runway 27, and the pilot reported being on final approach at 17:50. Upon touchdown, the aircraft bounced twice before performing a sharp climb. During this maneuver, the DC-3 lost control and crashed with its left wing down, coming to rest 480 m beyond the end of the runway.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the primary factor in the accident was improper cargo distribution by ground personnel, which initiated the chain of events leading to the loss of control.