2 fatalities

Cargo Plane Crash-Lands Short of Runway in Kingston (N43865)

Kingston-Norman Manley (Palisadoes), JamaicaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 20, 1979, a Douglas DC-6 (registration N43865) operated by Kimex was involved in an aviation accident near Kingston-Norman Manley (Palisadoes), Jamaica during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 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

A four-engine cargo plane carrying eggs and four people crashed into shallow water 1,500 meters short of the runway in Kingston, Jamaica, after a go-around. Two occupants died and two were seriously injured.

Accident Overview

A four-engine cargo aircraft, operating a flight from Gainesville, Florida, to Kingston, Jamaica, crashed into shallow water while attempting to land. The airplane was carrying a load of eggs and four occupants. The accident occurred when the airplane struck the water surface approximately 1,500 meters short of the runway.

Approach and Go-Around

On the initial final approach, the airplane was too high on the glide path, prompting the captain to abandon the landing and initiate a go-around.

Second Landing Attempt

During a second attempt to land, the airplane was too low and struck the water surface. The airplane crash-landed into shallow water, about 10 feet deep, well short of the runway.

Occupants and Injuries

Two of the four occupants were killed in the accident, while the other two sustained serious injuries.