Fatal aircraft accident during medical transport approach to Chapecó

7 fatalities • Chapecó-Serafim Enoss Bertaso, Brazil • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft conducting a medical mission from Porto Alegre crashed during its final approach to Chapecó-Serafim Enoss Bertaso Airport, resulting in seven fatalities.

What happened

During a night-time medical transport mission, an aircraft was traveling from Porto Alegre to Chapecó to deliver medical personnel. The flight was carrying two pilots and five doctors. As the crew attempted to land at Chapecó-Serafim Enoss Bertaso Airport, they encountered adverse weather conditions.

While performing the final approach, the aircraft impacted the terrain approximately 2.5 km before reaching runway 29. The impact resulted in a crash that caused six fatalities among the occupants. One passenger sustained serious injuries during the accident; however, that individual passed away from their injuries several hours after the event.

Findings

  • The flight was operating as an ambulance service.
  • Poor weather conditions were present during the approach phase.
  • The accident occurred during the final approach to the runway.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway during a night approach in poor weather conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-10-01 Embraer EMB-121 Xingu accident near Chapecó-Serafim Enoss Bertaso, Brazil?

An aircraft conducting a medical mission from Porto Alegre crashed during its final approach to Chapecó-Serafim Enoss Bertaso Airport, resulting in seven fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1997-10-01 Embraer EMB-121 Xingu accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 7 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-10-01 involved a Embraer EMB-121 Xingu, registration PP-EHJ, operated by Government of the State of Rio Grande do Sul, at Chapecó-Serafim Enoss Bertaso, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway during a night approach in poor weather conditions.

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