What happened
During the final segment of a journey originating from San Vicente del Caguán, the crew of the aircraft was notified that the Florencia-Gustavo Artunduaga Paredes Airport was unavailable for landings. This closure was due to heavy fog which had significantly reduced visibility levels at the destination.
Despite the notification regarding weather conditions, the flight proceeded with a descent and an attempt to complete the approach. The final communication from the aircraft occurred approximately 10 minutes before the impact, at which time the plane was maintaining an altitude of 3,600 feet. While on final approach, the aircraft collided with a mountain slope that was obscured by thick clouds, located roughly 15 km from the airport. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and 46 fatalities.
Findings
Investigations concluded that the accident was a result of controlled flight into terrain, occurring because the crew chose to proceed with the approach while weather conditions were below established minimum visibility requirements.