On September 8, 1988, a Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III operated by Aero Commercial Edsan was involved in an aviation accident near Machala, Ecuador during takeoff. 10 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Technical issues occurring during the initial climb phase caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft crashed into a shrimp pond shortly after departing from Machala Airport, resulting in the deaths of all ten people on board.
What happened
Shortly after departing from Machala Airport, an aircraft entered a period of uncontrolled flight during its initial climb phase. Approximately three minutes following takeoff, the crew experienced technical difficulties, which may have involved the engines, causing the plane to lose stability. The descent ended when the aircraft struck a shrimp pond.
Findings
All 10 occupants on board the aircraft perished in the accident.
The incident occurred during the early stages of flight, specifically while the aircraft was climbing from the runway.
Preliminary observations indicate that technical malfunctions led to the loss of control during the ascent.
Probable cause
Technical issues occurring during the initial climb phase caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 8 Sept 1988 Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III accident near Machala, Ecuador?
An aircraft crashed into a shrimp pond shortly after departing from Machala Airport, resulting in the deaths of all ten people on board.
Were there any fatalities in the 8 Sept 1988 Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 10 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Sept 1988 involved a Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III, operated by Aero Commercial Edsan, at Machala, Ecuador.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Technical issues occurring during the initial climb phase caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable.
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