The West Caribbean Airways accident of August 16, 2005, involved a McDonnell Douglas MD-82 operating a charter flight from Panama City, Panama, to Fort de France, Martinique. The aircraft experienced a dual-engine flameout during its climb and crashed in a remote, mountainous region of Venezuela, resulting in the loss of all 152 passengers and eight crew members. The event remains a significant aviation accident in South American history.
This tragic event prompted investigations by Venezuelan and French authorities, leading to crucial insights into the factors contributing to the crash. The findings, including the role of engine icing, maintenance procedures, and crew resource management, highlighted the importance of rigorous safety standards and regulations in the aviation industry. The accident’s impact contributed to improvements in pilot training, aircraft maintenance protocols, and enhanced understanding of high-altitude engine performance.
