Twin-engine aircraft crash near Puerto Barrios, Guatemala

2 fatalities • Puerto Barrios, Guatemala • Takeoff (climb)

A twin-engine aircraft crashed during takeoff from Puerto Barrios Airport, resulting in the deaths of both crew members.

What happened

On the morning of the accident, a twin-engine aircraft departed from Guatemala City-La Aurora Airport at 09:30 local time, bound for Rio Dulce. The flight was operated by a crew consisting of two pilots. While in flight, the crew communicated with Air Traffic Control to request a flight plan modification, which resulted in clearance to proceed directly toward Puerto Barrios.

Upon arriving at Puerto Barrios Airport, the crew performed several touch-and-go maneuvers. Following these maneuvers, the aircraft initiated a new approach and successfully landed on runway 12. During the subsequent takeoff attempt, the pilot-in-command applied increased engine power. During this phase of flight, the pilot lost control of the twin-engine aircraft. The plane struck a nearby road and came to rest in an inverted position. The impact caused the total destruction of the aircraft, and both two fatalities were recorded.

Probable cause

The pilot lost control of the aircraft during the takeoff roll following an increase in engine power.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2010-06-23 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident near Puerto Barrios, Guatemala?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed during takeoff from Puerto Barrios Airport, resulting in the deaths of both crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 2010-06-23 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2010-06-23 involved a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain, registration N430LA, operated by New Life Research & Development, at Puerto Barrios, Guatemala.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot lost control of the aircraft during the takeoff roll following an increase in engine power.

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