Overview
On October 6, 2008, at approximately 1332 central daylight time, a Cessna 421C with Mexican registration XB-KWB was destroyed while attempting to return to Xoxocotlan International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca, Mexico. The intended destination was Huatulco Airport (HUX). Both occupants of the aircraft sustained fatal injuries.
Sequence of Events
At approximately 1327, the pilot radioed a request to return and land on runway 01 at OAX. The runway was in use, and the pilot initiated a left 360-degree low-altitude turn for spacing. The aircraft impacted runway 01 with a low left wing and slid to the right side of the runway, coming to rest approximately 342 feet from the initial impact point on a heading of 200 degrees. A witness in a Cessna 206, which was on final approach behind the accident aircraft, reported that the 421 was in a steep left turn attempting to reach the runway when the left wing struck the runway to the right of the centerline.
Investigation Findings
On-scene investigation was conducted by the Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil (DGAC) with assistance from technical advisers from Cessna Aircraft and Teledyne Continental Motors. The flaps were found to be in the up position and the landing gear was down. There was no fire. Examination of the propellers revealed that the right propeller blades had separated from the hub and showed no signs of engine power. Only two blades from the left propeller were recovered: one blade remained attached to the hub, and both exhibited signs of engine power. Four propeller blade marks, spaced 24 inches apart, were discovered on the right side edge of runway 01.
Conclusion
The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Government of Mexico. This report contains only information released by the Government of Mexico. Further information may be obtained from the Secretaría de Comunicaciones y Transportes (SCT) and the DGAC.