Aircraft crash on La Soufrière volcano

2 fatalities • Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a forested area on La Soufrière during an attempted diversion to Pointe-à-Pitre-Le Raizet Airport.

What happened

Following an unexplained delay during departure from Port of Spain, the flight crew received notification that Marigot Airport was unavailable for landing. In response to this closure, the captain elected to redirect the flight toward Pointe-à-Pitre-Le Raizet Airport.

During the nighttime descent, the aircraft impacted trees while flying at an inadequate altitude. The impact led to a stall, causing the plane to crash within a heavily forested region on the La Soufrière volcano, situated approximately 25 km southwest of Pointe-à-Pitre. The accident resulted in two fatalities, as both pilots were killed.

Findings

The investigation determined that the primary factor in the accident was controlled flight into terrain.

Probable cause

The crew failed to maintain a safe altitude during a nighttime descent, leading to an impact with terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-09-09 Douglas DC-3 accident near Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe?

An aircraft crashed into a forested area on La Soufrière during an attempted diversion to Pointe-à-Pitre-Le Raizet Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-09-09 Douglas DC-3 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-09-09 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration 8P-AAC, operated by Carib West Airways, at Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew failed to maintain a safe altitude during a nighttime descent, leading to an impact with terrain.

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