What happened
During a period of labor strikes involving Avianca pilots, several Colombian Air Force planes were utilized to maintain scheduled flight services. On this specific flight departing from Leticia-Alfredo Vásquez Cobo Airport, the aircraft experienced a critical malfunction shortly after departure. The pilot reported an emergency situation after the number three engine ignited.
As the crew attempted to return to the airfield, the fire expanded toward the right wing of the plane. This caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable, leading to a crash in a jungle region situated approximately 32 km north of the airport. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft type and led to 80 fatalities.
Findings
Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was the failure of the number three engine, though the specific reason for this mechanical failure remained undetermined.