Nighttime Controlled Flight Into Terrain near Orizaba

17 fatalities • Orizaba, Mexico • Flight

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside near Cerro del Borrego during a night cruise, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During a nighttime flight, a twin engine aircraft was operating in a cruising phase when it struck the terrain. The accident occurred at approximately 06:00 local time near the Cerro del Borrego area, situated close to Orizaba. The impact with the mountain slope resulted in the deaths of all 17 occupants on board.

Findings

Investigations into the crash indicate that the crew failed to maintain a safe altitude during the cruise portion of the flight. Due to the darkness, the flight crew did not identify the approaching mountain terrain, leading to a fatal collision with the slope.

Probable cause

The crew failed to recognize the proximity of the mountain terrain while flying at an insufficient altitude during night operations.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1949-12-16 Douglas DC-3 accident near Orizaba, Mexico?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a mountainside near Cerro del Borrego during a night cruise, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1949-12-16 Douglas DC-3 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 17 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1949-12-16 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration XA-DUK, operated by Mexicana de Aviación, at Orizaba, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew failed to recognize the proximity of the mountain terrain while flying at an insufficient altitude during night operations.

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