4 fatalities

Aircraft Strikes Mount La Gama During Approach to San Cristóbal Airport (YV-1060CP)

San Cristóbal-Paramillo, VenezuelaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 13, 2003, a Let L-410 (registration YV-1060CP) operated by Ruiban & Duran Compania Aérea was involved in an aviation accident near San Cristóbal-Paramillo, Venezuela during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain after the crew initiated the descent prematurely in poor visibility. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

While descending to San Cristóbal Airport in marginal weather, a twin-engine aircraft struck the slope of Mount La Gama. Six people were seriously injured and four passengers were killed. The aircraft was destroyed.

Incident Overview

During the descent to San Cristóbal Airport, the crew encountered marginal weather conditions and limited visibility due to low clouds. On approach, the twin-engine aircraft struck the slope of Mount La Gama, located in the Chorro del Indio National Park. The impact destroyed the aircraft.

Injuries and Damage

Six people sustained serious injuries, while four passengers were killed. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact forces.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined that the probable cause was controlled flight into terrain after the crew initiated the descent prematurely in poor visibility.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Jul 2003 Let L-410 accident near San Cristóbal-Paramillo, Venezuela?

While descending to San Cristóbal Airport in marginal weather, a twin-engine aircraft struck the slope of Mount La Gama. Six people were seriously injured and four passengers were killed. The aircraft was destroyed.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Jul 2003 Let L-410 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jul 2003 involved a Let L-410, registration YV-1060CP, operated by Ruiban & Duran Compania Aérea, at San Cristóbal-Paramillo, Venezuela.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Controlled flight into terrain after the crew initiated the descent prematurely in poor visibility.