Aircraft crash during approach to Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz Airport

2 fatalities • Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed approximately 1,500 meters short of the runway during a second approach attempt at Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz Airport under low visibility conditions.

What happened

During a nighttime arrival at Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz Airport, the flight encountered heavy fog and significantly reduced visibility. While performing the initial descent, the pilot was unable to identify the runway, prompting the crew to execute a go-around maneuver. The aircraft subsequently entered a holding pattern to wait for improved conditions.

Shortly after, the crew attempted a second approach. During the short final phase of this second attempt, the aircraft impacted the ground roughly 1,500 meters before reaching the runway threshold. The impact caused cargo to shift within the main cabin, leading to a fatal accident. The crash resulted in two fatalities and several injuries among the passengers and crew.

Findings

  • The approach was conducted under night conditions with poor visibility caused by fog.
  • Cargo shifting within the cabin occurred during the accident, contributing to the casualties among the passengers.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway during a second approach attempt conducted in low-visibility fog.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-06-20 Douglas DC-6 accident near Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia?

An aircraft crashed approximately 1,500 meters short of the runway during a second approach attempt at Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz Airport under low visibility conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 1991-06-20 Douglas DC-6 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-06-20 involved a Douglas DC-6, registration HK-3511, operated by Aerosucre Colombia, at Barranquilla-Ernesto Cortissoz (ex Soledad), Colombia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway during a second approach attempt conducted in low-visibility fog.

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