Fatal crash near Iquitos-Coronel Francisco Secada Vignetta Airport

3 fatalities • Iquitos-Coronel Francisco Secada Vignetta, Peru • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into jungle terrain during its approach to Iquitos, Peru, resulting in the deaths of everyone on board.

What happened

During an approach to the Iquitos-Coronel Francisco Secada Vignetta Airport, the flight crew encountered environmental conditions that significantly restricted visibility. While attempting to land, the aircraft descended to an altitude that was too low for the surrounding terrain. This lack of sufficient clearance caused the plane to collide with trees in a forested area situated a short distance from the runway threshold.

The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. There were three fatalities among the occupants, with no survivors reported from the crash site.

Findings

  • The crew operated the flight during periods of poor weather and limited visibility.
  • The pilot failed to maintain a safe altitude above the terrain during the final approach phase.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude during an approach in low-visibility conditions led to a collision with trees.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1980-09-12 Douglas DC-8 accident near Iquitos-Coronel Francisco Secada Vignetta, Peru?

An aircraft crashed into jungle terrain during its approach to Iquitos, Peru, resulting in the deaths of everyone on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1980-09-12 Douglas DC-8 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1980-09-12 involved a Douglas DC-8, registration N715UA, operated by Aeronaves del Peru, at Iquitos-Coronel Francisco Secada Vignetta, Peru.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude during an approach in low-visibility conditions led to a collision with trees.

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