Fatal Twin-Engine Crash Near Araracuara Airport (HK-4755)

Incident Overview and Flight Details On 1503LT, a twin-engine aircraft departed Araracuara Airport runway 09 on a charter flight to Florencia. The aircraft was carrying eight passengers and two pilots. During the initial climb phase, the right engine failed. The crew subsequently lost control of the airplane, which stalled and crashed into a wooded area. The wreckage was located 8.2 km from the airport. The aircraft disintegrated upon impact, resulting in the deaths of all 10 occupants, including a Swiss citizen. ## Official Findings and Contributing Factors The official investigation determined that the probable cause was loss of control during initial climb following the failure of the right engine for undetermined reasons. Several contributing factors were identified. First, the crew failed to follow published procedures when the right engine failed. Second, the aircraft was likely operated with a total weight above its maximum takeoff weight (MTOW). Third, a poor risk assessment was made while performing an operation outside of the aircraft's performance limits.