A major search and rescue operation is underway in Colombia after a domestic passenger plane operated by the Satena airline went missing during a short flight on Wednesday. The aircraft, identified as flight HK4709, lost communication with air traffic control, prompting immediate concern from aviation authorities.
Details of the Missing Aircraft
The Satena flight was conducting a routine journey between the municipalities of Cúcuta and Ocaña in the Norte de Santander department. According to official confirmations, there were a total of 13 passengers and two crew members on board the aircraft at the time it disappeared from radar.
The flight was scheduled to arrive at its destination around noon local time, but it failed to make contact as expected. This triggered alarm bells and initiated the large-scale search effort currently mobilising resources across the region.
Last Known Position and Search Focus
Radar data has provided a crucial last known location for the missing plane. The final recorded position was in a remote area between the municipalities of Hacarí and La Playa de Belén. This zone is situated within the challenging terrain of the Catatumbo region, known for its dense forests and complex topography.
Search teams are concentrating their efforts in this specific area, utilising both ground personnel and aerial assets to scan the difficult landscape. The Catatumbo region's characteristics are presenting significant challenges to the operation, requiring specialised equipment and expertise.
Official Response and Investigation
Colombia's transport authorities have been swift to respond to the developing situation. The country's Minister of Transport, María Fernanda Rojas, has confirmed that the Directorate of Accident Investigation has been activated and is currently gathering all available information about the incident.
The minister emphasised that understanding the circumstances surrounding the disappearance is the immediate priority, alongside the ongoing search for survivors. Aviation experts are examining flight patterns, weather conditions, and maintenance records as part of the preliminary investigation.
Satena Airline's Operations
Satena, the airline operating the missing flight, is Colombia's state-owned regional carrier specialising in connecting remote communities across the country. The airline has maintained a generally strong safety record while operating in some of Colombia's most challenging geographical areas.
This incident represents one of the most serious aviation emergencies involving the carrier in recent years, drawing national attention to air safety protocols in regional Colombian aviation.
As night falls in the Catatumbo region, search operations are expected to continue through the evening, with authorities hoping for a breakthrough in locating the missing aircraft and its fifteen occupants. Families of those on board are being supported by airline officials as they await news from the search teams.
