Fatal accident involving aircraft at Riohacha-Almirante Padilla Airport

1 fatality • Riohacha, Colombia • Takeoff (climb)

A single-engine aircraft crashed during its takeoff roll at Riohacha-Almirante Padilla Airport, resulting in one fatality and two injuries.

What happened

While operating out of Riohacha-Almirante Padilla Airport, an aircraft was engaged in its initial takeoff phase. During the acceleration along the runway, the crew performed a premature retraction of the landing gear before the plane had achieved sufficient lift to leave the ground.

As a result of this action, the aircraft lost its structural support from the wheels and struck the runway surface on its undercarriage. The impact caused the plane to slide on its belly, leading to a subsequent crash that ignited a fire. The accident resulted in one fatality involving the pilot, while two crew members sustained injuries during the event.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the landing gear being retracted while the aircraft was still on the runway during the takeoff roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-10-15 Lockheed L-1049 Super Constellation accident near Riohacha, Colombia?

A single-engine aircraft crashed during its takeoff roll at Riohacha-Almirante Padilla Airport, resulting in one fatality and two injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-10-15 Lockheed L-1049 Super Constellation accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-10-15 involved a Lockheed L-1049 Super Constellation, registration N6924C, operated by Skyways International, at Riohacha, Colombia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the landing gear being retracted while the aircraft was still on the runway during the takeoff roll.

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