6 fatalities

Fatal aircraft accident near Rio Orinoco (YV-C-GAI)

Cuchivero, VenezuelaFlight

On May 8, 1972, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration YV-C-GAI) operated by Aerotecnica - ATSA was involved in an aviation accident near Cuchivero, Venezuela in flight. 6 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A charter flight operating between Ciudad Bolívar and the Cuchivero mines crashed into a mountainside during its approach to the destination.

What happened

During a scheduled charter operation, an aircraft was performing a flight from Ciudad Bolívar toward the Cuchivero mining region. As the flight crew was maneuvering for arrival at their destination, the plane impacted the side of a mountain situated in the vicinity of the Rio Orinoco.

The impact occurred during the approach phase of the flight. The accident resulted in six fatalities, with no survivors reported among the occupants of the aircraft.

Findings

Information regarding the specific technical or environmental factors contributing to the collision with the terrain has not been detailed in the available reports.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 May 1972 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Cuchivero, Venezuela?

A charter flight operating between Ciudad Bolívar and the Cuchivero mines crashed into a mountainside during its approach to the destination.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 May 1972 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 May 1972 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration YV-C-GAI, operated by Aerotecnica - ATSA, at Cuchivero, Venezuela.