What happened
Following its departure from Maracaibo-La Chinita Airport, the flight crew inadvertently steered the aircraft toward a heading of 153° instead of the intended 193°. This navigational error directed the aircraft type over Lake Maracaibo toward the southeast. While the flight was cruising at 16,500 feet, air traffic control authorized a descent to 5,500 feet. During this process, the crew notified controllers of a potential malfunction regarding the VOR, though this report was dismissed by air traffic services.
As the aircraft reached 9,900 feet, the captain identified the incorrect heading. In an attempt to correct the course, the pilot halted the descent and began a right turn to increase altitude. During this maneuver, the Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) activated. Shortly after the alarm, the aircraft collided with the slope of Mt Paramo Los Torres, situated approximately 27 km southwest of Valera. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate, resulting in 45 fatalities.
Findings
- The crew followed an incorrect heading after takeoff.
- Navigational error led the aircraft away from its intended flight path.
- The pilot attempted an altitude gain to correct the course, which triggered terrain warnings.