What happened
A twin-engine cargo flight originated from Maracay, destined for Puerto Ordaz, transporting bank documentation along with a crew of one pilot and one passenger. During the cruise phase of the flight, the pilot contacted air traffic control to report the presence of smoke within the cockpit. In response to this emergency, the pilot decided to divert the flight to the closest available airfield.
While attempting to reach an airport, the pilot executed an emergency landing in an open field situated approximately 20 km east of Zaraza. Upon making contact with the ground, the aircraft type rolled for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop. Shortly after the aircraft stopped, a fire broke out, resulting in the total destruction of the airframe.
Findings
- Both the pilot and the passenger managed to exit the aircraft and sustained zero injuries.
- The primary factor leading to the emergency landing was smoke in the cockpit.