On June 4, 1991, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration CC-CGP) operated by Línea Aérea Taxpa was involved in an aviation accident near Robinson Crusoe Island, Chile in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was ditched due to the occurrence of engine problems shortly after takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft experienced engine failure shortly after departing Robinson Crusoe Island, leading to a ditching in the ocean.
What happened
Shortly after departing from Robinson Crusoe Island on a flight toward the mainland, the crew of the aircraft experienced mechanical issues involving the engine. Due to these complications, the crew decided to perform an emergency ditching in the ocean, approximately 13 km away from the coast.
Following the impact with the water, the aircraft sank and was subsequently lost. However, a fishing vessel operating in the vicinity was able to reach the site and successfully rescue all four occupants of the aircraft. No fatalities were reported during the incident.
Findings
The crew encountered engine problems during the initial climb phase of the flight.
Probable cause
The aircraft was ditched due to the occurrence of engine problems shortly after takeoff.