Flight History
The flight departed Oscar Machado Zuloaga International Airport (SVCS) at 19:50 UTC on 8 December 2020, initially destined for General José Tadeo Monagas Airport (SVMT). The pilot returned shortly after takeoff due to an open cabin door. After correction, the flight departed again at 20:21, but the pilot later requested a change of destination to Manuel Carlos Piar International Airport (SVPR) in Puerto Ordaz.
Accident Sequence
At 22:07 UTC, the aircraft was 19 nautical miles from SVPR at 7,500 feet. The pilot was given meteorological information for runway 08. At 22:18, the aircraft was approaching high and left of the runway axis. The tower controller asked if the pilot intended a go-around; the pilot replied he would execute a 360° turn. After a second approach that was also high, the pilot again performed a 360° turn. On the third landing attempt, the pilot reported on base leg and was cleared to land. At approximately 22:22 UTC, during final approach, the left wing struck approach lighting poles. The aircraft lost lift and impacted the ground about 50 meters from the runway 08 threshold. No fire was reported, and only minor fuel spillage was observed.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot sustained serious injuries including fractures to the tibia and fibula of both legs. The passenger was uninjured. The aircraft was destroyed. Both propellers showed impact damage, and the right engine crankshaft was fractured at the propeller coupling end.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was loss of situational awareness.