On July 14, 1980, a Vickers Viscount (registration HC-BHB) operated by Aerolineas Condor was involved in an aviation accident near Catamayo (ex Camilo Ponce Enríquez), Ecuador during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Too low approach in limited visibility caused by local fumed and sunrise. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A cargo aircraft on final approach to Catamayo Airport struck the ground three meters short of the runway threshold after encountering limited visibility from smoke and sunrise. Both pilots were uninjured; the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Incident Details
While on final approach to Catamayo-Camilo Ponce Enríquez Airport following an uneventful cargo flight, the crew encountered limited visibility due to smoke emanating from local sugar cane field burns. Additionally, the crew was facing the sun during sunrise. The crew failed to recognize that their altitude was insufficient, and the aircraft struck the ground three meters short of the runway threshold.
Damage
Upon impact, the right main landing gear was torn off. The aircraft then slid on its right wing for approximately 200 meters before coming to rest on the runway. The right engines number 3 and 4 were partially torn off. Both pilots escaped uninjured, but the aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Probable Cause
The official investigation stated the probable cause as: "Too low approach in limited visibility caused by local fumed and sunrise."