24 fatalities

1990-05-10: Fairchild F27 (F-GHXA) — Aviacsa - Aviacion de Chiapas — Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Mexico

Tuxtla Gutiérrez, MexicoLanding (descent or approach)

On May 10, 1990, a Fairchild F27 (registration F-GHXA) operated by Aviacsa - Aviacion de Chiapas was involved in an aviation accident near Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Mexico during landing or approach. 24 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of control on final approach was the consequence of a loss of lift after the crew failed to maintain a minimum speed while initiating a go-around procedure. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781212930Data APIEditorial standards

On final approach to Tuxtla Gutiérrez Airport runway 35, a fully configured aircraft initiated a go-around, lost height, struck trees, and crashed 3,200 meters short of the runway. The accident killed 24 and injured 16.

Accident Details

On final approach to Tuxtla Gutiérrez Airport runway 35, the aircraft was fully configured for landing. The crew decided to initiate a go-around procedure for unknown reasons and completed a left turn in an attempt to make a 180 circuit. During this maneuver, the aircraft lost height, struck trees, and crashed 3,200 meters short of the runway threshold. The impact ignited a fire.

Casualties and Injuries

All four crew members and 20 passengers were killed. Sixteen other occupants sustained injuries.

Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was a loss of control on final approach resulting from a loss of lift after the crew failed to maintain a minimum speed while initiating the go-around procedure. At the time, the aircraft was fully configured for landing with flaps and landing gear down.

Contributing Factors

The investigation identified two contributing factors: lack of crew coordination and lack of crew experience on this type of aircraft.