On July 19, 1994, an Embraer EMB-110 Bandeirante (registration HP-1202AC) operated by Alas Chiricanas was involved in an aviation accident near Colón, Panama during takeoff. 21 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was the result of an in-flight explosion caused by the presence of a bomb placed on board by members of a terrorist group called 'Ansar Allah'. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft exploded during initial climb after departing Colón-Enrique Adolfo Jiménez Airport in poor weather, crashing 10 km from the airport. All 21 occupants were killed. Investigators found bomb fragments and attributed the explosion to a bomb placed by the Ansar Allah terrorist group.
Incident Overview
The aircraft departed Colón-Enrique Adolfo Jiménez Airport under poor weather conditions associated with a low pressure zone. During its initial climb, an explosion occurred, and the aircraft crashed approximately 10 kilometers from the airport. The crew did not transmit any distress call. The aircraft disintegrated upon impact.
Casualties
All 21 occupants aboard the aircraft were killed in the crash. Among the victims were 12 Jewish businessmen.
Investigation Findings
Official investigation determined that metal fragments were recovered from all bodies. The accident was the result of an in-flight explosion caused by a bomb placed on board. The bomb was attributed to members of the terrorist group 'Ansar Allah'.
Probable cause
The accident was the result of an in-flight explosion caused by the presence of a bomb placed on board by members of a terrorist group called 'Ansar Allah'.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 19 Jul 1994 Embraer EMB-110 Bandeirante accident near Colón, Panama?
An aircraft exploded during initial climb after departing Colón-Enrique Adolfo Jiménez Airport in poor weather, crashing 10 km from the airport. All 21 occupants were killed. Investigators found bomb fragments and attributed the explosion to a bomb placed by the Ansar Allah terrorist group.
Were there any fatalities in the 19 Jul 1994 Embraer EMB-110 Bandeirante accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 21 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Jul 1994 involved an Embraer EMB-110 Bandeirante, registration HP-1202AC, operated by Alas Chiricanas, at Colón, Panama.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The accident was the result of an in-flight explosion caused by the presence of a bomb placed on board by members of a terrorist group called 'Ansar Allah'.
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