6 fatalities

Hydraulic Failure and Fire During Diversion After Landing Gear Issue (HK-718)

Villavicencio, ColombiaLanding (descent or approach)

On November 2, 1973, a Handley Page HPR-7 Dart Herald (registration HK-718) operated by Lineas Aéreas La Urraca was involved in an aviation accident near Villavicencio, Colombia during landing or approach. 6 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

Aircraft experienced hydraulic fluid loss, then smoke in cockpit after takeoff. Undercarriage extended despite indicators. Diverted to Villavicencio, crashed on final approach after engine feathering.

Accident Overview

On a flight from Paz de Ariporo and Tame to Arauca, a loss of hydraulic fluid was observed in the left main gear hydraulic system upon landing at Arauca. A split hose was replaced before the aircraft continued to Cúcuta. Approximately five minutes after takeoff from Arauca, a burning smell and smoke were detected in the cockpit. The undercarriage appeared to remain extended, although the cockpit indicators did not show this. The crew decided to divert to Villavicencio.

Diversion and Approach

At Villavicencio, the crew performed two low passes over the airfield to receive instructions from the chief of maintenance and an airline instructor who were on the ground. During the final approach to runway 22, the instructor directed the pilot to feather the no. 1 engine as a precaution. After crossing the threshold at low altitude, power was re-applied. The aircraft then turned slowly to the left, lost altitude, and crashed in flames.