Aircraft crash in Catia La Mar following engine failure

6 fatalities • Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar, Venezuela • Takeoff (climb)

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into buildings in Catia La Mar during its initial climb, resulting in six fatalities.

What happened

A private flight departing from Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar Airport toward Willemstad-Hato Airport in Curaçao experienced a critical emergency shortly after takeoff. The aircraft, a twin engine plane, was carrying one pilot and two passengers at the time of the incident.

During the initial climb phase, the pilot communicated reports of mechanical issues regarding the engines. In response to the emergency, air traffic control authorized an immediate return to the departure airport. However, during this maneuver, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The plane descended into a residential or commercial area in the Catia La Mar district, striking several buildings approximately 6 km before reaching the threshold of runway 09. The impact caused the aircraft to ignite, resulting in the total destruction of the airframe.

Findings

The crash resulted in a total of six fatalities, including all three people on board the aircraft and three individuals located on the ground. Additionally, the accident left five people injured.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost control during an emergency return attempt following reported engine malfunctions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2008-04-28 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident near Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar, Venezuela?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into buildings in Catia La Mar during its initial climb, resulting in six fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 2008-04-28 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2008-04-28 involved a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo, registration N6463L, operated by Aircraft Guaranty Holdings & Trust, at Caracas-Maiquetía-Simón Bolívar, Venezuela.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost control during an emergency return attempt following reported engine malfunctions.

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