Aircraft impact with maritime structures during approach to Belém

11 fatalities • Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro, Brazil • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft struck a ship mast and barges during its final approach to Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro Airport, resulting in multiple fatalities.

What happened

During the final approach phase toward runway 06 at Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro Airport, the flight crew operated under adverse meteorological conditions. The area was experiencing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and low cloud cover.

As the aircraft was on short final, it descended below the necessary altitude and collided with the mast of a vessel located in a dry dock. Following this initial impact, the plane struck two barges. The collision caused the aircraft to break apart; the forward section of the fuselage crashed onto a tugboat, while the rear portion of the plane submerged into the harbor.

The accident resulted in 11 fatalities and left three passengers seriously injured.

Findings

  • The flight was conducted amidst severe weather, including heavy rain and significant wind.
  • The aircraft maintained an insufficient altitude during the final approach, leading to the collision with maritime infrastructure.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck maritime structures after descending below the required altitude during a final approach in heavy rain and strong winds.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1981-02-24 Embraer EMB-110 Bandeirante accident near Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro, Brazil?

An aircraft struck a ship mast and barges during its final approach to Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro Airport, resulting in multiple fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1981-02-24 Embraer EMB-110 Bandeirante accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 11 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1981-02-24 involved a Embraer EMB-110 Bandeirante, registration PT-GLB, operated by Votec Taxi Aéreo, at Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck maritime structures after descending below the required altitude during a final approach in heavy rain and strong winds.

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