What happened
During a descent from flight level 240, the aircraft experienced a catastrophic structural failure in mid-air. The upper portion of the T-tail, specifically the horizontal stabilizer, detached from the fuselage prior to the plane hitting the ground. The accident resulted in 14 fatalities, with no survivors among the occupants.
Findings
Post-accident inspections identified that 47 screw fasteners, which are essential for securing the left-side leading edge assembly of the horizontal stabilizer, were absent from the structure. These components had been removed during maintenance activities performed the previous evening.
Investigations determined that the maintenance crew, including mechanics, inspectors, and supervisors, failed to follow the FAA-approved procedures outlined in the general maintenance manual. This failure to comply with established maintenance protocols was a critical factor in the loss of structural integrity. Furthermore, it was noted that FAA oversight and routine surveillance of the Continental Express maintenance facility were insufficient to identify these procedural deficiencies.