13 fatalities

All 13 Occupants Killed in Aircraft Accident After Grenade Explosion (YV-C-AFE)

Calabozo, VenezuelaLanding (descent or approach)

On April 28, 1960, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration YV-C-AFE) operated by Linea Aeropostal Venezolana - LAV was involved in an aviation accident near Calabozo, Venezuela during landing or approach. 13 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft had been properly maintained and there was no evidence of any breakage or structural failure or mechanical failure or defective performance of any component prior to the explosion. The accident was caused by an exploding device. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

While on approach to Calabozo Airport, a Russian citizen entered the cockpit and apparently attempted to hijack the aircraft. He threw a grenade, which exploded, causing the aircraft to go out of control and crash in flames. All 13 occupants were killed.

Incident

During the approach to Calabozo Airport, a Russian citizen entered the cockpit and apparently attempted to hijack the airplane. Shortly thereafter, he threw a grenade onto the floor. The grenade detonated, causing an explosion that led to a loss of control. The aircraft subsequently crashed in flames approximately 15 kilometers from the airport. The impact and fire destroyed the aircraft, and all 13 occupants were killed.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the aircraft had been properly maintained, and there was no evidence of any breakage, structural failure, mechanical failure, or defective performance of any component prior to the explosion. The accident was attributed to an exploding device.