Engine failure and crash near Playa del Carmen

No fatalities • Playa del Carmen, Mexico • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced engine failure shortly after takeoff from Playa del Carmen, resulting in a crash in a wooded area with no injuries reported.

What happened

Shortly after departing from Playa del Carmen, an aircraft operating at an altitude of approximately 1,500 feet experienced a sudden loss of power due to an engine failure. In response to the mechanical malfunction, the pilot attempted to execute an emergency landing procedure.

During the descent, the plane struck trees and came to rest in a forested region situated roughly 18 km away from the original departure airfield. Despite the impact, the pilot and the four passengers, identified as a family from the United Kingdom, escaped the wreckage without any injuries. The impact resulted in the aircraft being declared a total loss, as the structural damage was beyond repair.

Findings

  • The primary cause of the accident was an engine failure occurring during the initial climb phase of the flight.

Probable cause

The engine lost power shortly after takeoff, leading to an uncontrolled descent into a wooded area.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2017-12-21 Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair accident near Playa del Carmen, Mexico?

An aircraft experienced engine failure shortly after takeoff from Playa del Carmen, resulting in a crash in a wooded area with no injuries reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 2017-12-21 Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2017-12-21 involved a Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair, registration XA-UHL, operated by Aero Saab, at Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine lost power shortly after takeoff, leading to an uncontrolled descent into a wooded area.

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