Aircraft crash in Vila Anhanguera following loss of altitude

7 fatalities • São Paulo-Congonhas, Brazil • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed into several residential buildings in São Paulo after experiencing an uncontrolled descent following takeoff from Congonhas Airport.

What happened

Following departure from runway 17 at São Paulo-Congonhas Airport, the flight crew received instructions to climb to an altitude of 5,500 feet while maintaining a heading of 270 degrees. During this climb, the aircraft encountered adverse weather conditions characterized by strong winds, atmospheric turbulence, and heavy cloud cover.

While the aircraft was at 5,300 feet, it experienced a loss of altitude, dropping to 4,700 feet. This lower altitude was held for approximately 17 seconds before the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent. The flight path ended in a crash into four residential structures situated in the Vila Anhanguera district, roughly 5.5 km southwest of the airport. The impact resulted in the total destruction of both the aircraft and the four houses.

Findings

  • The descent was preceded by significant meteorological challenges, including turbulence and high winds.
  • The impact resulted in seven fatalities among those on the ground.
  • The incident caused six injuries, with one individual sustaining serious wounds.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent during a climb through turbulent weather conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-12-16 Rockwell Turbo Commander 680/681 accident near São Paulo-Congonhas, Brazil?

An aircraft crashed into several residential buildings in São Paulo after experiencing an uncontrolled descent following takeoff from Congonhas Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 2000-12-16 Rockwell Turbo Commander 680/681 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 7 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-12-16 involved a Rockwell Turbo Commander 680/681, registration PT-IEE, operated by Agropecuária J. Caetano, at São Paulo-Congonhas, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent during a climb through turbulent weather conditions.

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