Cargo aircraft crash following engine failure near Puerto Gaitán

No fatalities • Puerto Gaitán, Colombia • Takeoff (climb)

A cargo flight departing from Puerto Gaitán Airport experienced an engine explosion and subsequent crash landing, resulting in no fatalities.

What happened

During a cargo operation departing from Puerto Gaitán Airport, an aircraft experienced a critical mechanical failure shortly after departing from Runway 04. While en route to Villavicencio, the left engine underwent an explosion and ignited a fire. This failure caused the aircraft to lose both airspeed and altitude.

In an attempt to manage the emergency, the crew initiated an unplanned landing. The aircraft subsequently crash landed in an open field situated approximately 2.6 km southwest of the airport. Following the impact, the aircraft caught fire and was completely destroyed.

Outcomes

  • All three crew members managed to exit the wreckage.
  • The occupants sustained only minor injuries.
  • The aircraft was lost due to the post-crash fire.

Probable cause

An explosion and subsequent fire in the left engine led to a loss of flight parameters and an emergency crash landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2016-04-06 Douglas DC-3 accident near Puerto Gaitán, Colombia?

A cargo flight departing from Puerto Gaitán Airport experienced an engine explosion and subsequent crash landing, resulting in no fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 2016-04-06 Douglas DC-3 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2016-04-06 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration HK-2663, operated by Arall Colombia - Aerolineas Llaneras, at Puerto Gaitán, Colombia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An explosion and subsequent fire in the left engine led to a loss of flight parameters and an emergency crash landing.

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