On December 16, 2001, a Let L-410 (registration HK-4175X) operated by Heliandes was involved in an aviation accident near Medellín, Colombia during takeoff. 16 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight crew's failure to follow prescribed departure routes and standard operating procedures resulted in the aircraft striking terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside in Colombia, resulting in the deaths of all 16 people on board.
What happened
Following departure from runway 01 at Medellín-Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport, the crew of a twin engine aircraft began a right-hand turn while maintaining a climb. During this ascent, the aircraft encountered significant weather conditions characterized by heavy rain and towering cumulus clouds. At an altitude of approximately 9,200 feet, the plane collided with the slope of Mt El Silencio, located near San Antonio de Prado.
The impact and subsequent post-crash fire resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were no survivors among the 16 fatalities recorded at the scene.
Findings
Investigations into the accident determined that the crew did not adhere to established company standard operating procedures or the designated departure route. This deviation led to a controlled flight into terrain during the climb phase.
Probable cause
The flight crew's failure to follow prescribed departure routes and standard operating procedures resulted in the aircraft striking terrain.