Cessna 421 crash during landing approach in Oaxaca

2 fatalities • Oaxaca, Mexico

A Cessna 421C crashed on the runway at Xoxocotlan International Airport while the pilot was attempting to return for landing.

What happened

On October 6, 2008, at approximately 13:32 CDT, a Cessna 421C, registered as XB-KWG, was destroyed while attempting to land at Xoxocotlan International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca, Mexico. The flight was originally destined for Huatulco Airport (HUX).

At approximately 13:27, the pilot requested to return to the airport to land on runway 01. Because the runway was currently in use, the pilot began a low-altitude left 360-degree turn to facilitate spacing. During this maneuver, the aircraft's left wing impacted the right side of the runway centerline. The aircraft slid to the right side of the runway, coming to a stop approximately 342 feet from the initial impact point on a heading of 200 degrees.

A witness flying a Cessna 206 on final approach behind the accident aircraft reported that the Cessna 421C was in a steep left turn attempting to reach the runway when the wing strike occurred. The accident resulted in 2 fatal injuries.

The investigation

An investigation conducted by the DGAC, with technical assistance from Cessna Aircraft and Teledyne Continental Motors, found the landing gear was down and the flaps were up at the time of the accident. There was no fire involved in the event.

Regarding the engines, the right propeller blades had separated from the hub and showed no evidence of engine power. On the left propeller, only two blades were recovered, with one blade remaining attached to the hub; both of these blades showed signs of engine power. Additionally, four propeller blade marks, spaced 24 inches apart, were located on the right edge of runway 01.

Probable cause

Not determined

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Oct 2008 CESSNA 421 421C accident near Oaxaca, Mexico?

A Cessna 421C crashed on the runway at Xoxocotlan International Airport while the pilot was attempting to return for landing.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 Oct 2008 CESSNA 421 421C accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Oct 2008 involved a CESSNA 421 421C, operated by Guillermo Gurrion Matias, at Oaxaca, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Not determined

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