Fatal crash during test flight at Bogotá-El Dorado Airport

4 fatalities • Bogotá-El Dorado, Colombia • Flight

A local test flight involving a crew of four ended in a fatal accident near Bogotá-El Dorado Airport after the aircraft banked and crashed.

What happened

During a scheduled local test flight departing from Bogotá-El Dorado Airport, an aircraft carrying a total of four fatalities experienced a catastrophic failure. The crew consisted of two pilots and two engineers. While flying at an altitude of approximately 200 feet directly over runway 12, the pilot managed to broadcast a brief mayday distress signal. Shortly after this transmission, the aircraft entered a left bank and impacted the ground, resulting in a post-crash fire that completely destroyed the airframe.

Findings

Investigations into the accident revealed several mechanical issues present at the time of impact. While no technical irregularities were identified regarding the left engine, the left propeller had transitioned to a feathered position during the crash sequence. Crucially, investigators discovered that the right engine had suffered a seizure involving the connecting rod and the forward bearing. Additionally, records indicated that the pilot-in-command lacked the necessary qualifications for this specific aircraft type.

Probable cause

The accident was linked to a seized connecting rod and forward bearing in the right engine, compounded by the pilot's lack of type rating.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1980-01-24 Douglas DC-3 accident near Bogotá-El Dorado, Colombia?

A local test flight involving a crew of four ended in a fatal accident near Bogotá-El Dorado Airport after the aircraft banked and crashed.

Were there any fatalities in the 1980-01-24 Douglas DC-3 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1980-01-24 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration HK-2214, operated by Aerotal Colombia - Aerolineas Territoriales de Colombia, at Bogotá-El Dorado, Colombia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was linked to a seized connecting rod and forward bearing in the right engine, compounded by the pilot's lack of type rating.

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