2 fatalities

2010-06-23: Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain (N430LA) — New Life Research & Development — Puerto Barrios, Guatemala

Puerto Barrios, GuatemalaTakeoff (climb)

On June 23, 2010, a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain (registration N430LA) operated by New Life Research & Development was involved in an aviation accident near Puerto Barrios, Guatemala during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control following an unstabilized approach. The failure of the crew to initiate a go-around procedure was considered as a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781196053Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed on a road after losing control during takeoff at Puerto Barrios Airport; both pilots were killed. The probable cause was loss of control following an unstabilized approach, with failure to go around as a contributing factor.

Accident Summary

A twin-engine aircraft departed Guatemala City-La Aurora Airport at 0930 local time for a flight to Rio Dulce with two pilots on board. En route, the crew contacted air traffic control, modified their flight plan, and were cleared to proceed direct to Puerto Barrios.

Accident Sequence

After arriving at Puerto Barrios Airport, the pilots executed several touch-and-go maneuvers. They then completed an approach and landing on runway 12. The pilot-in-command increased engine power to take off, but lost control of the airplane. The aircraft crashed onto a road, coming to rest upside down. The aircraft was destroyed, and both occupants were killed.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a loss of control following an unstabilized approach. The failure of the crew to initiate a go-around procedure was considered a contributing factor.