Aircraft excursion at Capahuari following weather-related loss of visibility

No fatalities • Capahuari, Ecuador • Landing (descent or approach)

A single-engine aircraft veered off the runway and entered a ravine during its final approach to Capahuari due to a sudden rain squall.

What happened

During the final approach phase of the flight into Capahuari, the aircraft encountered a sudden rain squall that obscured the pilot's view of the ground. While attempting to land, the single-engine aircraft made contact with the surface of runway 36, resulting in a bounce. Following this impact, the aircraft became uncontrollable and drifted toward the left side of the runway. The flight ended when the plane exited the paved surface and settled in a nearby ravine.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the loss of control was the sudden loss of visual contact with the ground caused by heavy precipitation.
  • The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
  • There were two injuries reported among the occupants, though both were classified as minor.
  • The incident occurred during the landing phase of the flight.

Probable cause

A sudden rain squall caused the pilot to lose visual references, leading to a runway impact and subsequent excursion into a ravine.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-09-19 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident near Capahuari, Ecuador?

A single-engine aircraft veered off the runway and entered a ravine during its final approach to Capahuari due to a sudden rain squall.

Were there any fatalities in the 1992-09-19 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-09-19 involved a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter), registration E-180, operated by Ecuadorian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana, at Capahuari, Ecuador.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A sudden rain squall caused the pilot to lose visual references, leading to a runway impact and subsequent excursion into a ravine.

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