What happened
Shortly after departing Tarapacá Airport for Tres Esquinas, a three-engine aircraft experienced a sudden fire. The plane subsequently crashed into a dense forested region situated a few kilometers from the departure point. Search and rescue teams launched operations immediately following the incident. However, due to the terrain and conditions, the burnt wreckage was not located until two and a half days after the crash. All 16 occupants perished in the accident.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the aircraft suffered a sudden and severe fire while in flight. The specific origin of the fire remains unknown, though authorities suggested it may have been triggered by an engine explosion.