Investigation Summary
The accident occurred during a period of heightened tension and military activity along the Venezuela-Colombia border. Just days prior to the crash, Colombian President Álvaro Uribe had requested Venezuelan assistance in addressing FARC guerrilla activity on the Venezuelan side of the border. The helicopter was performing a routine patrol in a region known for difficult terrain and volatile weather, as well as the presence of irregular armed groups. President Hugo Chávez announced the crash during his weekly television program, 'Aló Presidente', confirming the loss of General Faneite, a former cadet of his. Despite the geopolitical context, no evidence was publicly released to suggest the aircraft was downed by hostile fire, and the specific technical or environmental cause of the crash remains officially undetermined in public records.
Final Conclusions
The investigation into the crash was handled by Venezuelan military authorities. While the wreckage was located and the deaths of all occupants confirmed, no final public report detailing the specific cause (such as mechanical failure, pilot error, or weather) has been widely disseminated. The Venezuelan government maintained that the crew was fulfilling their duty to protect the nation's sovereignty at the time of the accident.
Video Analysis
No video analysis linked for this case file yet.
Systems & Failure Modes
Mil Mi-17
A medium twin-turbine transport helicopter frequently used by the Venezuelan military for high-altitude border patrols and troop transport.
Interesting Facts
- 01The crash site was located at coordinates 7°46′N 72°14′W near the Colombian border.
- 02The dead included one Brigadier General, two army pilots, thirteen army personnel, and one civilian.
- 03The aircraft involved was a Russian-made Mil Mi-17 transport helicopter.
- 04The crash occurred shortly after the U.S. State Department criticized Venezuela's border security regarding Colombian rebels.