Accident
The aircraft, christened 'Clipper Fearless', departed San Salvador-Ilopango Airport with a five-hour delay caused by loading issues. The flight was a nighttime cargo operation destined for Miami. While cruising, the crew failed to realize that the altitude was insufficient and that they were not following the assigned route. The airplane subsequently struck trees and crashed in a wooded area near Mercedes. The aircraft was destroyed and all three crew members were killed.
Investigation
Investigators determined that the airplane was off course by 37 kilometers at the time of the accident. They were unable to determine the exact cause of this deviation. The investigation focused on the navigational error and the crew's failure to maintain situational awareness regarding altitude and flight path.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause states: "The airplane was off course by 37 km at the time of the accident. Investigations were unable to determine the exact cause of this deviation."