7 fatalities

Fatal aircraft crash near Monterrubio during unauthorized flight

Monterrubio, ColombiaTakeoff (climb)

On October 8, 1983, a Douglas DC-6 operated by Private Colombian was involved in an aviation accident near Monterrubio, Colombia during takeoff. 7 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the crash remains undetermined, though the aircraft was engaged in an illegal smuggling operation at the time of the accident. 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 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed shortly after departing Monterrubio while engaged in an illegal transport mission, resulting in seven fatalities.

What happened

Following a departure from Monterrubio, an unidentified aircraft crashed under circumstances that remain unclear. The incident occurred during the initial phase of flight, shortly after the plane had taken off. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe.

All seven people on board the aircraft perished in the accident. During the post-crash investigation of the wreckage, authorities discovered a significant quantity of narcotics at the site, specifically approximately 30,000 lbs of marijuana. Evidence suggests the flight was being conducted as an unauthorized transport mission for contraband.

Findings

Investigations into the wreckage confirmed that the aircraft was carrying a massive payload of illegal drugs. The crash occurred during the takeoff phase of the flight, though the specific mechanical or operational reason for the loss of control has not been officially determined.

Probable cause

The exact cause of the crash remains undetermined, though the aircraft was engaged in an illegal smuggling operation at the time of the accident.