What happened
Shortly after departing from Cochabamba-Jorge Wilsterman Airport, an aircraft was climbing through 9,000 feet when the captain notified air traffic control that an engine had exploded. Following this mechanical failure, the plane became uncontrollable and descended into Laguna Huanacota, located approximately 13 km south of the airfield.
The accident resulted in 59 fatalities, as all passengers and crew members perished, with one exception. A two-year-old girl sustained serious injuries during the impact; however, she later succumbed to her wounds while being transported to a medical facility.
Findings
Official investigations into the crash identified that the engine explosion was likely caused by excessive contribution. A significant contributing factor was that the total weight of the aircraft exceeded the maximum allowable takeoff weight at the time of departure.