Incident Overview
A passenger aircraft operating a flight from Orlando to Cancún experienced a loss of navigation during the en route phase. The crew became disoriented and was unable to adhere to the prescribed route, causing the aircraft to deviate westward from its flight plan. Air traffic control subsequently vectored the aircraft to Tampico-General Francisco Javier Mina Airport, located approximately 1,144 kilometers northwest of the intended destination.
Sequence of Events
As the aircraft approached Tampico, it was cleared for a final approach to Runway 31. During the approach, both engines failed simultaneously due to fuel exhaustion. The loss of power led to a reduction in airspeed, causing the aircraft to stall. The aircraft then collided with ILS equipment situated about 300 meters short of the runway threshold. Upon impact, the landing gear were sheared off. The aircraft continued onto the runway, sliding and coming to rest 220 meters beyond the initial collision point.
Outcome
All 47 people on board evacuated the aircraft safely. The aircraft sustained substantial damage and was deemed beyond repair.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the dual engine failure was caused by fuel exhaustion. The crew's loss of situational awareness and deviation from the flight plan led to the diversion to Tampico, where the fuel reserves were insufficient to complete the approach.