35 fatalities

Crew Encountered Stormy Weather Before Crash Near Apiay AFB (FAC-685-A)

Caño La Raya, ColombiaFlight

On September 8, 1969, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration FAC-685-A) operated by SATENA - Servicio de Aeronavegacion a Territorios Nacionales was involved in an aviation accident near Caño La Raya, Colombia in flight. 35 people were killed. 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

On the last leg of flight NSE742 from Bogotá, the crew began descent into stormy weather. The aircraft struck a rocky peak and crashed near Caño La Raya, 55 km east of Apiay AFB, killing all 35 occupants.

Incident Overview

On the final leg of flight NSE742, originating from Bogotá, the crew initiated a descent while encountering stormy weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, low clouds, and turbulence. As the aircraft approached from the east, it struck a rocky peak and subsequently crashed near Caño La Raya, approximately 55 kilometers east of Apiay Air Force Base.

Aircraft and Occupants

The aircraft was totally destroyed in the impact. All 35 occupants, including crew members, were killed. The crew consisted of Major Eduardo Antonio Lozano, Lieutenant Tirso Hernando Martinez (copilot), and Auxiliary Lupo Cieves.

Location and Circumstances

The crash site was located near Caño La Raya, about 55 kilometers east of Apiay AFB. The descent was initiated amid stormy weather, which included heavy rain, low clouds, and turbulence.