No fatalities

1992-03-26: Douglas DC-9 (HK-2864X) — Intercontinental Colombia - Intercontinental de Aviación — Tumaco-La Florida, Colombia

Tumaco-La Florida, ColombiaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 26, 1992, a Douglas DC-9 (registration HK-2864X) operated by Intercontinental Colombia - Intercontinental de Aviación was involved in an aviation accident near Tumaco-La Florida, Colombia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that on short final, during the last segment, the copilot inadvertently extended the spoilers, causing the aircraft to enter a rapid descent until it impacted the runway surface with a positive acceleration that exceeded its certification. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781211141Data APIEditorial standards

On approach to Tumaco-La Florida Airport, an aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent from 100 feet and struck the runway. The right wing partially failed, prompting evacuation of all 92 occupants. Few passengers were injured; the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Accident Sequence

During the final approach to Tumaco-La Florida Airport, at a height of approximately 100 feet, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent and impacted the runway surface. The crew managed to complete the braking procedure, vacated the runway, and brought the aircraft to a stop on the apron.

Evacuation and Injuries

Following the landing, the right wing partially failed, leading to the evacuation of all 92 occupants. A small number of passengers sustained injuries. The aircraft was subsequently assessed as damaged beyond repair.

Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, the copilot inadvertently extended the spoilers during the last segment of the short final. This action caused the aircraft to enter a rapid descent until it struck the runway with a positive acceleration exceeding its certification limits. Contributing factors included corrosion found in the wing root, lack of crew coordination, and a poorly planned approach.