Single-engine aircraft crash near Tapachula Airport

1 fatality • Tapachula, Mexico • Takeoff (climb)

A solo pilot was killed when their aircraft experienced engine issues and crashed into a plantation shortly after departing Tapachula Airport.

What happened

On the day of the accident, a single-engine aircraft departed from Tapachula Airport Runway 05. The mission involved a local flight intended for the release of Mediterranean flies, with a flight plan filed for a duration of four hours and a target cruising altitude of 9,500 feet. The planned operational area was situated between 60 and 100 nautical miles from the Tapachuna VOR.

During the initial climb, while the aircraft had reached an altitude of approximately 1,000 feet, the pilot reported experiencing engine problems. Following this report, the aircraft performed a right-hand turn and entered an uncontrolled descent. The flight ended when the plane struck a mango plantation. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and one fatality.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced a loss of power or mechanical failure during the climb phase.
  • The descent became uncontrolled following the reported engine issues.

Probable cause

The aircraft suffered an engine failure during the initial climb, leading to an uncontrolled descent and subsequent crash.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2021-10-19 Cessna 401 accident near Tapachula, Mexico?

A solo pilot was killed when their aircraft experienced engine issues and crashed into a plantation shortly after departing Tapachula Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 2021-10-19 Cessna 401 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2021-10-19 involved a Cessna 401, registration XB-RQE, operated by Servicios Mubarqui, at Tapachula, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft suffered an engine failure during the initial climb, leading to an uncontrolled descent and subsequent crash.

Loading the flight search…