What happened
Following a routine scheduled service from New York to Acapulco via Mexico City, an aircraft arrived at Acapulco International Airport shortly after midnight. After undergoing refueling and servicing, the aircraft departed from runway 10 at approximately 01:14 local time to perform a crew training mission.
During the flight, the aircraft reached 16,000 feet and requested permission from air traffic control to execute a simulated descent. The tower granted clearance and instructed the crew to report their position when passing 6,000 feet. While the aircraft successfully reported at this altitude, subsequent communications ceased after the crew reported being on a procedure turn at 2,500 feet. At roughly 02:15, explosions were heard near the airport, and a fire was observed southeast of the airfield. Search efforts located the wreckage on the slopes of Mt El Salado, approximately 33 km from the airport. The Boeing 727 was completely destroyed, and all six crew members perished in the accident.
Findings
Investigations determined that the primary cause was an improper descent conducted during a procedure turn, which continued below the required minimum altitude. The investigation revealed several key details regarding the flight's final moments:
- The pilot initiated the descent from 2,500 feet while still in the middle of the procedure turn, rather than waiting until the aircraft was aligned with the runway as standard procedures dictate.
- The descent continued below established altitude limits, leading the aircraft to impact the terrain in a nearly level attitude with a slight right bank. At the time of impact, the landing gear was extended and flaps were set to 50 degrees.
- There was no evidence of mechanical failure, engine malfunction, or loss of control due to equipment issues.
- Investigators noted evidence of complacency in flight supervision during the training maneuver.