On May 30, 2015, a Piper PA-31 Cheyenne (registration YV2761) operated by Inversiones PTT was involved in an aviation accident near Barcelona, Venezuela during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck the water during its final approach while operating in poor weather conditions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft impacted the water surface during its approach to Barcelona-Jose Antonio Anzoátegui Airport, resulting in the loss of the airframe but no fatalities.
What happened
During an approach to Barcelona-Jose Antonio Anzoátegui Airport, a twin-engine aircraft experienced a water impact while attempting to land. The flight had originated from Charallave and proceeded without incident until the descent phase. While operating in unfavorable weather conditions, the aircraft maintained a flat attitude during its final approach.
The aircraft struck the water approximately 3.7 km before reaching runway 15. Following the impact, the four occupants were able to exit the cabin and relocate to a lifeboat. All individuals sustained slight injuries and were successfully recovered by rescue teams approximately two hours after the event. The aircraft subsequently sank and is considered a total loss.
Findings
The descent was conducted during periods of poor weather conditions.
The impact occurred while the aircraft was in the final approach phase of flight.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck the water during its final approach while operating in poor weather conditions.