Aircraft crash on Mount Lilio during approach to Mexico City

8 fatalities • Mexico City, Mexico • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside near Mexico City-Benito Juarez Airport after striking treetops during its descent.

What happened

During an approach to Mexico City-Benito Juarez Airport, the flight crew received clearance to descend from 11,000 feet to 9,000 feet. During this maneuver, the aircraft type struck the tops of trees and subsequently crashed onto the slope of Mt Lilio, situated approximately 24 km away from the airport. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate. There were eight fatalities among the occupants of the plane.

Findings

At the time of the accident, the mountain area was obscured by heavy cloud cover. Investigations indicated that the crew was operating at an altitude that was too low for the terrain during their approach. The specific reason for this low-altitude descent remains undetermined.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck terrain while descending at an insufficient altitude during a cloudy approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1980-08-01 Douglas DC-8 accident near Mexico City, Mexico?

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside near Mexico City-Benito Juarez Airport after striking treetops during its descent.

Were there any fatalities in the 1980-08-01 Douglas DC-8 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 8 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1980-08-01 involved a Douglas DC-8, registration OB-R-1143, operated by AeroPeru, at Mexico City, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck terrain while descending at an insufficient altitude during a cloudy approach.

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