Fatal crash of four-engine aircraft near Trinidad, Bolivia

5 fatalities • Trinidad-Jorge Heinrich Arauz, Bolivia • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its descent into Trinidad, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

While traveling from La Paz to Palmira, the flight crew received notification from air traffic control that Palmira Airport was unavailable for landing because of adverse weather. Consequently, the decision was made to divert the flight to Trinidad-Jorge Heinrich Arauz Airport.

During the approach and descent phase, the four-engine aircraft experienced a sudden loss of control. The plane struck a mountain slope located a short distance from the destination airport, impacting with enough force to ignite a fire. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe and the deaths of all five occupants.

Findings

Investigation into the accident revealed that an unidentified fire broke out inside the cabin during the descent. This fire released fumes that incapacitated the crew, leading to the loss of control of the aircraft.

Probable cause

An onboard fire produced toxic fumes that rendered the crew unable to maintain control of the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1983-06-08 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident near Trinidad-Jorge Heinrich Arauz, Bolivia?

A four-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its descent into Trinidad, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1983-06-08 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-06-08 involved a Douglas C-54 Skymaster, registration CP-1404, operated by Frigorifico Reyes (FRI REYES), at Trinidad-Jorge Heinrich Arauz, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An onboard fire produced toxic fumes that rendered the crew unable to maintain control of the aircraft.

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