Colombian authorities have confirmed that all 15 people aboard a small commercial aircraft died after it crashed in the mountainous Catatumbo region near the Venezuela border, ending an intense search operation.

A Beechcraft 1900D aircraft operating as Satena Flight NSE 8849 crashed in Colombia’s Catatumbo region on 28 January 2026, killing all 13 passengers and two crew members on board. The flight, travelling from Cúcuta to Ocaña, lost radar contact minutes before landing.

After hours of search operations involving the Colombian Aerospace Force and local authorities, the wreckage was located in difficult mountainous terrain.

Among the victims were Congressman Diógenes Quintero and congressional candidate Carlos Salcedo, prompting nationwide mourning and political tributes.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, while government officials, including President Gustavo Petro, expressed condolences to the families.

Aircraft Loses Contact Minutes Before Landing

The ill-fated aircraft, a Beechcraft 1900D registered as HK-4709, departed Camilo Daza International Airport in Cúcuta at approximately 11:42 am local time on Tuesday. Operated by SEARCA for Colombia’s state-owned airline Satena, the flight was scheduled to reach Aguas Claras Airport in Ocaña within 25 minutes.

However, air traffic controllers lost radar contact with the plane at around 11:54 am, just minutes before its planned landing. Communication attempts failed, triggering emergency protocols and a large-scale search operation across the rugged terrain of Norte de Santander province, close to the Venezuelan border.

The Colombian Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that the aircraft disappeared over an area known for steep mountains, dense forests and unpredictable weather – factors that often complicate both flying conditions and rescue efforts.

Wreckage Found in Catatumbo’s Mountainous Terrain

After hours of aerial and ground searches, the wreckage was located in the Catatumbo region, near La Playa de Belén, following reports from local residents.

Rescue teams from the Colombian Aerospace Force, police units and emergency responders reached the crash site under challenging conditions, including poor visibility and limited road access.

Officials confirmed that there were no survivors. In a statement, the Ministry of Transport said, “Sadly, once the aircraft was located, it was confirmed that all those on board had lost their lives.”

Satena’s president, Major General Óscar Zuluaga, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, stating that the airline was “accompanying the families of the victims in this moment of profound pain” and cooperating fully with investigators.

Recovery efforts are ongoing, with teams working to retrieve remains and aircraft components needed for forensic and technical analysis.

Political Leaders Among Victims, Nation Mourns

The crash has resonated deeply across Colombia due to the loss of prominent public figures. Among the deceased was Diógenes Quintero, a sitting congressman and human rights lawyer who represented victims of Colombia’s long-running armed conflict, particularly from the Catatumbo region.

Also killed was Carlos Salcedo, a congressional candidate actively campaigning ahead of the upcoming March elections. Their deaths have drawn condolences from across the political spectrum, temporarily pausing campaign activities in parts of the country.

President Gustavo Petro expressed his grief on social media, offering condolences to the families and calling the incident “a painful loss for the nation.” Lawmakers, activists and civil society groups remembered Quintero for his advocacy for peace, dialogue and justice in conflict-affected regions.

A Challenging Route Through Difficult Geography

The Cúcuta–Ocaña route, though short, is considered operationally demanding due to the Andean terrain and rapidly shifting weather conditions common in northeastern Colombia. The Catatumbo region, bordering Venezuela, is also historically affected by conflict, illicit economies and limited infrastructure, further complicating emergency response.

Aviation experts note that small turboprop aircraft like the Beechcraft 1900 are commonly used on regional routes but require precise navigation, particularly in mountainous environments. While authorities have not yet indicated the cause of the crash, early reports suggest weather conditions may have been a contributing factor, though mechanical failure or human error have not been ruled out.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia has launched a formal investigation, including an analysis of flight data, maintenance records and weather reports from the time of the accident.

Investigations Begin, Safety Questions Raised

As investigators begin piecing together the final moments of the flight, questions are emerging about aviation safety in remote regions and the preparedness of emergency response systems. The crash has reignited discussions around the need for enhanced radar coverage, improved infrastructure and additional safeguards for regional air travel.

Satena, which primarily serves remote and underserved areas, reiterated its commitment to safety, stating that the aircraft met regulatory requirements and that it would fully support the investigation.

Families of the victims have called for transparency and accountability, urging authorities to ensure that lessons are learned to prevent similar tragedies.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

This devastating crash is a sobering reminder of how geography, infrastructure and safety intersect to shape human lives.

Beyond the headlines and statistics lie families, communities and regions grappling with sudden loss – from grieving loved ones to citizens who have lost voices advocating for peace and justice.

At moments like these, empathy must guide our responses, alongside a firm commitment to accountability and systemic improvement. Transparent investigations, strengthened safety standards and compassionate support for affected families are essential to honour those who lost their lives.