What happened
A Conviasa Boeing 737-291 Advanced aircraft, identified by the registration YV102T, was conducting a ferry flight from Maiquetia in Venezuela to Latacunga, Ecuador. The plane had previously been stored in Caracas and was being transported to a new owner. There were no passengers on board, only three crew members. During the approach phase, the aircraft deviated from its intended path and collided with Illiniza Volcano. All three crew members died in the crash.
Investigation
The Dirección General de Aviación Civil (DGAC) of Ecuador conducted the investigation, which lasted 622 days before the final report was issued on May 14, 2010. The inquiry focused on the flight's navigation and adherence to established procedures for Latacunga airport.
Findings
The investigation concluded that the failure to follow technical procedures for the initial turn of Instrument Approach Procedure Number 4 was the primary cause. This error placed the aircraft outside the protected airspace pattern, leading it into high-elevation mountainous terrain. The report also cited the crew's lack of familiarity with the area surrounding the approach path and insufficient airline documentation for flights to non-scheduled airports.