Engine failure and crash landing near Purisima del Maguey

No fatalities • Purísima del Maguey, Mexico • Flight

A twin-engine aircraft experienced a left engine failure during descent, resulting in a crash landing in an open field near Zacatecas.

What happened

On the afternoon of the incident, a twin-engine aircraft departed from Chihuahua-General Fierro Villalobos Airport, bound for Zacatecas-General Leobardo C. Ruiz. The flight, operated with one pilot and four passengers on board, initially maintained an altitude of 11,500 feet while traveling south at a speed of 120 knots.

During the descent phase toward the destination, the aircraft experienced a mechanical issue when the left engine lost power, followed by a total failure of that engine shortly thereafter. In response to the loss of power, the pilot lowered the aircraft's altitude to attempt an emergency landing. The flight ended when the aircraft struck an open field situated approximately 25 km northwest of Zacatecas Airport.

Findings

While the aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss, there were no fatalities among the five people on board. All occupants were able to evacuate the wreckage safely following the impact.

Probable cause

The loss of power and subsequent failure of the left engine during the descent phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-08-22 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Purísima del Maguey, Mexico?

A twin-engine aircraft experienced a left engine failure during descent, resulting in a crash landing in an open field near Zacatecas.

Were there any fatalities in the 2013-08-22 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-08-22 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration XC-FEE, operated by Government of the State of Chihuahua, at Purísima del Maguey, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of power and subsequent failure of the left engine during the descent phase.

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