Flight and Occupants
The airplane was completing a flight from Quito to Macará. On board were members of the Ecuadorian government, Army Officers, and journalists who were traveling to the south of the country to participate in the next official visit of President Jaime Roldós Aguilera.
Accident Sequence
While descending to Macará, the crew encountered poor weather conditions characterized by low clouds and rain showers. Flying too low, the airplane struck the slope of a mountain and crashed a few kilometers from Macará. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact.
Fatalities
All 18 occupants were killed in the accident.
Registration
The airplane held a dual registration: FAE457 and HC-BAX.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be controlled flight into terrain.