What happened
On the scheduled flight from New York-Idlewild to Bogotá via Montego Bay and Barranquilla, an Avianca Lockheed Super Constellation experienced mechanical issues. During the initial leg toward Montego Bay, the number 3 engine failed, prompting a diversion to Miami. After arriving in Miami at 16:57, the crew replaced a propeller governor; however, subsequent inspections revealed a defect in the number 2 engine that required rectification before departure.
The aircraft departed Miami at 00:12, with the co-pilot acting as the pilot flying. Upon approaching Montego Bay, the flight received clearance for a standard instrument approach. The crew identified the airfield following a procedure turn at 2,000 feet and transitioned to a visual approach. During the landing sequence, the aircraft experienced a heavy touchdown that caused it to bounce back into the runway. The plane then skidded along the surface while on fire, eventually coming to rest inverted approximately 1,900 feet from the threshold and 200 feet to the left of the runway.
The accident resulted in 37 fatalities and 9 survivors, consisting of five crew members and four passengers. The aircraft was a total loss due to the fire.
Findings
Investigations determined that the crash was caused by an approach path that led to a heavy landing. This impact transmitted stresses through the undercarriage that exceeded design limits, resulting in a major structural failure of the port wing near Station 80. The sink rate at the moment of impact surpassed the maximum design limit of 10 feet per second. While the captain holds primary responsibility for safety, investigators noted that errors in judgment were linked to deficiencies in pilot training and proficiency checking regarding the aircraft registration HK-177. Consequently, a degree of responsibility was attributed to the supervisory authorities overseeing flight operations.