What happened
During a flight originating from Guatemala City, the crew began their descent toward San Salvador-Comlamapa Airport. The approach was complicated by heavy rainfall and low visibility caused by nighttime conditions and thunderstorm activity. In response to the weather, air traffic control authorized a route modification while the aircraft continued its descent.
As the aircraft reached an altitude of 5,000 feet, the Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) triggered an alarm. In an attempt to recover, the pilot applied maximum engine power; however, the aircraft type (unspecified model) collided with trees in a heavily wooded region of Mount San Vicente, also known as Chichontepec Volcano. The impact occurred approximately 25 km northeast of the runway 25 threshold. The force of the collision caused the aircraft to disintegrate, and all 65 fatalities were recorded.
Findings
- The descent took place amidst severe weather, including thunderstorms and heavy rain.
- Poor visibility due to night conditions and precipitation was a significant factor during the approach.
- The aircraft struck terrain following a GPWS alert during the descent phase.