1976-11-05: Douglas DC-3 (HP-671) — Inair Panama - Internacional de Aviación — Willemstad-Hato, Dutch Antilles

2 fatalitiesWillemstad-Hato, Dutch AntillesTakeoff (climb)

A fatal aviation accident occurred in the waters near Willemstad-Hato Airport when an aircraft crashed during its initial climb.

What happened

During a flight departing from Willemstad-Hato Airport, an aircraft entered a sudden descent shortly after beginning its ascent. While the plane was in the climbing phase of flight, the nose pitched downward, leading to an impact with the ocean surface.

There were two fatalities resulting from the crash, as both members of the crew perished in the accident. The incident occurred in the vicinity of the departure airfield during the early stages of the flight path.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced a loss of pitch control during the climb.
  • The impact took place in the sea following the downward trajectory.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced an uncontrolled nose-down pitch during the takeoff climb phase.