Engine failure and crash at La Vertiente Airport

10 fatalities • La Vertiente, Bolivia • Takeoff (climb)

A charter flight operating for Servicios Aéreos Vargas de España crashed following a dual engine failure shortly after takeoff from La Vertiente Airport.

What happened

During a charter operation departing from runway 01/19 at La Vertente Airport, an aircraft experienced a simultaneous loss of power in both engines. The loss of thrust caused the plane to descend rapidly, leading it to collide with trees. The impact occurred in a field located approximately 300 metres beyond the threshold of the runway.

The flight was being operated by Servicios Aéreos Vargas de España (SAVE) and was transporting personnel from the San Antonio, Texas-based Tesoro Bolivia Petroleum Company to Santa Cruz-Viru Viru Airport. The accident resulted in 10 fatalities, including one crew member and nine passengers, while 9 other occupants sustained injuries.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary factor in the accident was the loss of engine power for reasons that remained undetermined.

Probable cause

The aircraft suffered a simultaneous loss of power in both engines for unknown reasons.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-12-12 Swearingen SA226 Metro II accident near La Vertiente, Bolivia?

A charter flight operating for Servicios Aéreos Vargas de España crashed following a dual engine failure shortly after takeoff from La Vertiente Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 1997-12-12 Swearingen SA226 Metro II accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 10 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-12-12 involved a Swearingen SA226 Metro II, registration CP-1635, operated by Servicios y Transportes Aéreos Petroleros - STAP, at La Vertiente, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft suffered a simultaneous loss of power in both engines for unknown reasons.

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