Aircraft impact on Mt Cipó during approach to Belo Horizonte

19 fatalities • Mt Cipó, Brazil • Flight

An aircraft crashed into the slope of Mt Cipó while flying in adverse weather, resulting in the deaths of all 19 people on board.

What happened

While operating under difficult meteorological conditions, an aircraft struck the side of Mt Cipó, located approximately 50 km northeast of Belo Horizonte-Pampulha Airport. The incident occurred shortly before the flight was scheduled to arrive at its destination. The impact resulted in 19 fatalities, with no survivors reported among the occupants.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the aircraft had deviated from its intended flight path by 48 km. This deviation is attributed to a navigation error committed by the crew. Additionally, the presence of low cloud cover and overall poor visibility during the flight were identified as contributing elements to the accident.

Probable cause

A navigation error led the aircraft off course into terrain during periods of low visibility.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1954-05-31 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Mt Cipó, Brazil?

An aircraft crashed into the slope of Mt Cipó while flying in adverse weather, resulting in the deaths of all 19 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1954-05-31 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 1954-05-31 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration PP-ANO, operated by Transportes Aéreos Nacional, at Mt Cipó, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A navigation error led the aircraft off course into terrain during periods of low visibility.

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