Aircraft crash during night approach to Buenos Aires

No fatalities • Buenos Aires-Ezeiza-Ministro Pistarini, Argentina • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft crashed into trees short of the runway threshold in Buenos Aires following an approach in low visibility.

What happened

During a nighttime final approach into Buenos Aires, a four-engine airplane encountered heavy fog which significantly restricted visibility for the flight crew. While attempting to land on runway 11, the aircraft descended below the required altitude and collided with trees situated approximately 2.5 km before the runway threshold. The impact caused the plane to lose altitude and crash into a wooded area located roughly 300 meters to the right of the extended centerline. A large fire broke out following the impact, resulting in the total destruction of the airframe. Among those on board, 22 occupants were injured, while 42 others escaped without harm.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the crew utilized an incorrect approach configuration during the descent. The primary contributing factor was the crew's failure to follow the established approach checklist and monitor flight instruments while operating in reduced visibility. This lack of procedural compliance led to the aircraft maintaining an altitude that was too low for a safe approach.

Probable cause

The crew failed to properly monitor instruments and adhere to approach checklists while flying in low-visibility conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-08-03 Boeing 707 accident near Buenos Aires-Ezeiza-Ministro Pistarini, Argentina?

A four-engine aircraft crashed into trees short of the runway threshold in Buenos Aires following an approach in low visibility.

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-08-03 Boeing 707 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-08-03 involved a Boeing 707, registration CC-CCX, operated by LAN Chile - Linea Aérea Nacional de Chile, at Buenos Aires-Ezeiza-Ministro Pistarini, Argentina.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew failed to properly monitor instruments and adhere to approach checklists while flying in low-visibility conditions.

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