On January 15, 1996, a Piper PA-31 Cheyenne (registration OB-1403) operated by Servicios Aéreos AQP was involved in an aviation accident near Mt Chachani, Peru during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain after the crew initiated the descent prematurely for unknown reasons. Lack of visibility due to clouds was a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During descent to Arequipa Airport, a twin-engine aircraft struck Mount Chachani, disintegrated, and killed all five occupants. Controlled flight into terrain due to premature descent and low visibility.
Accident Overview
While descending to Arequipa–Alfredo Rodríguez Ballón Airport, a twin-engine aircraft encountered poor weather conditions and struck the slope of Mount Chachani, approximately 17 kilometers north of the airport. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate, and all five occupants were killed.
Circumstances
The crew was navigating the descent when they faced reduced visibility due to clouds. The aircraft subsequently collided with the mountainous terrain before reaching the airport.
Probable Cause
Official findings determined the probable cause to be controlled flight into terrain after the crew initiated the descent prematurely for unknown reasons. Lack of visibility due to clouds was listed as a contributing factor.
What happened in the 15 Jan 1996 Piper PA-31 Cheyenne accident near Mt Chachani, Peru?
During descent to Arequipa Airport, a twin-engine aircraft struck Mount Chachani, disintegrated, and killed all five occupants. Controlled flight into terrain due to premature descent and low visibility.
Were there any fatalities in the 15 Jan 1996 Piper PA-31 Cheyenne accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Jan 1996 involved a Piper PA-31 Cheyenne, registration OB-1403, operated by Servicios Aéreos AQP, at Mt Chachani, Peru.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Controlled flight into terrain after the crew initiated the descent prematurely for unknown reasons. Lack of visibility due to clouds was a contributing factor.
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