Forced landing of cargo aircraft near San Luis Potosí

No fatalities • San Luis Potosí, Mexico • Landing (descent or approach)

A cargo flight transporting automotive parts performed a forced landing in an agricultural area near Peñasco following engine issues during an emergency diversion.

What happened

A cargo flight operating from Santiago de Querétaro Airport to Laredo, Texas, was interrupted by mechanical difficulties during the flight. The aircraft, which was transporting a shipment of automotive parts, experienced engine problems while en route. In response to the malfunction, the crew received authorization to divert to San Luis Potosí-Ponciano Arriaga Airport for an emergency landing.

During the approach to the diversion airport, the crew determined that the aircraft could not successfully reach the runway. Consequently, a decision was made to execute a forced landing. The aircraft impacted the ground approximately 6 km northeast of the threshold of runway 14, coming to a stop in an agricultural field in the Peñasco region. The impact resulted in the loss of the undercarriage and significant structural damage, including a bent and partially detached left wing. Both crew members survived the incident with only minor injuries, though the aircraft was declared a total loss.

Findings

  • The flight was diverted due to engine problems encountered during the mission.
  • The crew attempted an emergency landing at a secondary airport but was unable to complete the approach to the runway.

Probable cause

The crew attempted a forced landing after engine malfunctions prevented them from completing an emergency approach to the diversion airport.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2018-08-07 Dassault Falcon 20 accident near San Luis Potosí, Mexico?

A cargo flight transporting automotive parts performed a forced landing in an agricultural area near Peñasco following engine issues during an emergency diversion.

Were there any fatalities in the 2018-08-07 Dassault Falcon 20 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2018-08-07 involved a Dassault Falcon 20, registration N961AA, operated by Alliance Air Charter, at San Luis Potosí, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew attempted a forced landing after engine malfunctions prevented them from completing an emergency approach to the diversion airport.

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