119 fatalities

1983-07-11: Boeing 737-200 (HC-BIG) — Transportes Aéreos Mercantiles Ecuatorianos - TAME — Cuenca-Mariscal La Mar, Ecuador

Cuenca-Mariscal La Mar, EcuadorLanding (descent or approach)

On July 11, 1983, a Boeing 737-200 (registration HC-BIG) operated by Transportes Aéreos Mercantiles Ecuatorianos - TAME was involved in an aviation accident near Cuenca-Mariscal La Mar, Ecuador during landing or approach. 119 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: For unknown reasons, the flying crew continued the approach below the glide without proper visual contact with the ground. A lack of experience was considered as a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781220296Data APIEditorial standards
Boeing 737-200
Photo: San Diego Air & Space Museum Archives / Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

On approach to Cuenca-Mariscal La Mar Airport in poor weather, the airplane struck trees and crashed in flames about 2 km from the runway threshold, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and the deaths of all 119 occupants.

Accident Description

The accident occurred during final approach to Cuenca-Mariscal La Mar Airport. The crew encountered limited visibility due to poor weather conditions. The flying pilot failed to recognize that the airplane's altitude was insufficient. The aircraft struck trees and crashed in flames near the district of Gaullum, approximately 2 kilometers short of the runway 05 threshold.

Damage and Fatalities

The aircraft was totally destroyed. All 119 occupants on board were killed.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that, for unknown reasons, the flying crew continued the approach below the glide path without proper visual contact with the ground. A lack of experience was considered as a contributing factor.