3 fatalities

1979-07-23: IAI Arava 201 (GN-7953) — Venezuelan National Guard - Guardia Nacional Bolivariana de Venezuela — Matthew's Ridge, Guyana

Matthew's Ridge, GuyanaFlight

On July 23, 1979, an IAI Arava 201 (registration GN-7953) operated by Venezuelan National Guard - Guardia Nacional Bolivariana de Venezuela was involved in an aviation accident near Matthew's Ridge, Guyana in flight. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of navigational orientation due to worsening weather led to an unsuccessful emergency landing attempt. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781225003Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane crashed in Guyana after the crew lost navigation during deteriorating weather conditions.

What happened

A flight traveling from Ciudad Bolívar to Santa Elena de Uairén ended in a fatal accident near Matthew's Ridge, Guyana. While operating the twin engine airplane, the crew encountered worsening meteorological conditions that led to them becoming disoriented and lost during the en route phase of the flight.

In an attempt to perform an emergency landing due to the loss of situational awareness, the aircraft struck various obstacles on the ground before coming to a rest. The impact resulted in three fatalities and left six individuals injured.

Findings

The accident occurred as a result of deteriorating weather conditions which caused the crew to lose their way during the flight.

Probable cause

The loss of navigational orientation due to worsening weather led to an unsuccessful emergency landing attempt.