What happened
On December 29, 2012, a PIPER PA-28-235, registration N-64KW, was operating in the department of Quiché, Guatemala. The aircraft was involved in an accident in the municipality of Nebaj. The impact occurred in an area characterized by mountainous terrain. The accident resulted in two fatalities.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the DGAC/UIA examined the flight sequence, the meteorological conditions at the time of the occurrence, and the aircraft's performance capabilities. Investigators reviewed the weather reports from the MGCB station, which indicated that on the day of the accident, the region was experiencing variable weather, including scattered clouds and light rain in the surrounding areas. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft' and pilot's technical data, including density altitude considerations and takeoff performance requirements for the specific terrain.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in an area with complex terrain.
- Meteorological conditions in the vicinity included scattered clouds and intermittent light precipitation.
- The accident resulted in two fatalities.
- The investigation identified the terrain and environmental conditions as significant factors in the sequence of events.