Aircraft accident at Belém-Val-de-Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro Airport

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

An aircraft crashed into Guajará Bay during a low-visibility approach to runway 06 in Belém, resulting in 38 fatalities.

What happened

During an approach to Belém-Val-de-Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro Airport, the aircraft encountered severe weather characterized by heavy rainfall and thunderstorm activity. As the flight was performing a final turn to align with the approach path for runway 06, the wing of the plane made contact with the water. This impact caused the aircraft to crash into Guajará Bay, approximately 800 meters before reaching the threshold of the runway.

The accident resulted in 38 fatalities among the occupants. Emergency responders were able to locate and rescue one passenger and one crew member from the wreckage.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the pilot-in-command did not maintain sufficient altitude during the maneuver. The primary factor contributing to the accident was a misjudgment of the vertical distance between the aircraft and the water surface while operating in marginal weather conditions.

Probable cause

The crew miscalculated the clearance between the aircraft and the water level during an approach in poor weather.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-03-14 Fairchild-Hiller FH-227 accident near Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro, Brazil?

An aircraft crashed into Guajará Bay during a low-visibility approach to runway 06 in Belém, resulting in 38 fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-03-14 Fairchild-Hiller FH-227 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 38 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-03-14 involved a Fairchild-Hiller FH-227, registration PP-BUF, operated by Paraense Transportes Aéreos, at Belém-Val de Cans-Júlio Cezar Ribeiro, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew miscalculated the clearance between the aircraft and the water level during an approach in poor weather.

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