What happened
A routine maritime patrol mission over the Gulf of Mexico ended in an emergency water landing after an aircraft experienced a total loss of power. The flight, which began at Cancún Airport, proceeded for approximately five hours before the crew began their approach toward the coastline.
During the return leg of the mission, the crew notified Air Traffic Control of an initial engine failure. Shortly after this notification, the second engine also ceased operation. In response to the loss of propulsion, the crew descended to a lower altitude and performed a ditching maneuver in the sea. The incident occurred roughly 3.5 km from the coast of Progreso, situated approximately 40 km north of Mérida.
Findings
- The aircraft was lost following the impact with the water.
- All 7 occupants were successfully rescued from the wreckage.