Air tragedy in Colombia: The five occupants of the crashed plane found dead
In an event that has shocked the nation, Colombian authorities confirmed this Wednesday the discovery of the bodies of the five occupants of the Cessna T-206 aircraft that crashed last Sunday in a wooded area located between the departments of Chocó and Risaralda.
The aircraft, identified with registration number HK4985, took off from the municipality of Condoto, in Chocó, bound for Guaymaral airport, in Bogotá. The last recorded contact with air traffic control services occurred at 9:23 a.m. on Sunday, at which point the unit’s trail was lost in a region of difficult geographical access.
Humanitarian work interrupted
The victims were part of a group of professionals who had been in Condoto since the previous week, participating in a health brigade dedicated to providing specialized medical assistance to the inhabitants of that remote area of the country. Their work was highlighted by various institutions as an example of commitment to vulnerable communities.
With deep regret and sadness, I confirm to the country the discovery of the Cessna T206 aircraft, registration HK-4985, which crashed while covering the route between Condoto, Chocó, and Guaymaral, in Bogotá. I join you in your grief with deep respect and offer my prayers to the Almighty to pour upon your homes comfort, serenity, and strength to endure such an irreparable loss.
Abelardo de la Espriella, President
Complex recovery tasks
The Colombian Aerospace Force (FAC) deployed a specialized combat search and rescue team to access the crash site. Due to the extreme topography of the area, the recovery maneuvers presented significant technical challenges for the elite units.
- The terrain has a very high angle of incidence, preventing aircraft from landing.
- Rescuers had to be inserted using rescue hoists from helicopters.
- The personnel sent have autonomous supplies to remain in the area for several days, equipped to withstand adverse weather conditions.
The Colombian Medical College joined the voices of condolence, highlighting that the tragic accident underscores the bravery and sacrifice of healthcare workers who risk their lives to bring medical care to the most remote corners of the national geography.
