Fatal aircraft accident at San Cristóbal de Las Casas Airport

13 fatalities • San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Mexico • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine airplane crashed during its final approach to San Cristóbal de Las Casas Airport, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight into San Cristóbal de Las Casas Airport, a twin engine airplane experienced an explosion while still airborne. Following the mid-air event, the aircraft descended and impacted the ground just a few dozen meters before reaching the runway threshold. The impact resulted in a large fire that consumed the wreckage.

There were 13 fatalities recorded in the accident, as all individuals on board perished. Among the passengers were representatives from the National Indian Institute.

Findings

Official investigations into the crash have not yet determined the specific reason for the mid-air event. The primary factor identified is an unexplained in-flight explosion that occurred prior to the aircraft hitting the ground.

Probable cause

The precise origin of the in-flight explosion has not been established.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1977-11-03 Britten-Norman Islander accident near San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Mexico?

A twin-engine airplane crashed during its final approach to San Cristóbal de Las Casas Airport, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1977-11-03 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 13 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1977-11-03 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration XA-FUA, operated by Servicios Aéreos Martinez Leon, at San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The precise origin of the in-flight explosion has not been established.

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