15 fatalities

Aircraft Crash at Passo Fundo Airport (PP-VBV)

Passo Fundo, BrazilLanding (descent or approach)

On July 1, 1963, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration PP-VBV) operated by VARIG - Viação Aérea Rio Grandense was involved in an aviation accident near Passo Fundo, Brazil during landing or approach. 15 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Error of judgement on the part of the pilot in attempting to fly visually in unfavorable weather conditions during twilight. 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

An aircraft crashed in a wooded area near Passo Fundo Airport during a low-visibility approach. The accident killed 15 people and injured three others.

Incident Overview During an approach to Passo Fundo Airport, the flight crew encountered poor weather conditions characterized by low visibility. The aircraft was reported to be too low on final approach, which led to a collision with trees. The crash occurred in a wooded area located a few kilometers short of the runway threshold. The aircraft was destroyed in the incident. ## Casualties The accident resulted in the deaths of both pilots and 13 passengers. Additionally, three other occupants sustained injuries. ## Official Findings The official investigation identified the probable cause as an error of judgment by the pilot. The pilot attempted to fly visually in unfavorable weather conditions during twilight.