On February 6, 1996, a Cessna 500 Citation (registration XA-SLQ) operated by Aérotaxi Cachanilla was involved in an aviation accident near Ensenada, Mexico during landing or approach. 8 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew did not receive any clearance to approach Ensenada Airport and continued the descent at an insufficient altitude. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft struck a hill during a nighttime approach to Ensenada Airport in foggy conditions, killing all eight occupants. Investigators believe the crew had no clearance and continued descending at an insufficient altitude.
Accident Overview
On a night approach to Ensenada Airport, an aircraft collided with a hill located a few kilometers from the airport. The crew failed to realize that the aircraft's altitude was insufficient for the terrain. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact, and all eight occupants sustained fatal injuries.
Flight History and Conditions
The accident occurred while the aircraft was approaching Ensenada Airport. Weather conditions included night and fog. Investigators found no evidence that the crew had received clearance to approach the airport. Despite the lack of clearance and the low visibility, the crew continued the descent.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the crew did not receive any approach clearance for Ensenada Airport. They continued the descent at an altitude that was insufficient for the surrounding terrain. The collision with the hill was the result of this inadequate altitude management. The aircraft was destroyed in the crash, resulting in the deaths of all eight occupants.
Probable cause
The crew did not receive any clearance to approach Ensenada Airport and continued the descent at an insufficient altitude.