Accident Details
Following an uneventful flight from Quito, the crew initiated the approach to Coca Airport Runway 15. The aircraft descended too low on final, touching down 4.5 meters short of the runway threshold. Upon impact, the left main landing gear was torn off. The aircraft then rolled for 112 meters before veering off the runway to the left. It continued rolling for another 263 meters and came to rest against a concrete wall.
Occupants and Injuries
The aircraft carried 65 occupants at the time of the accident. All 65 were rescued from the scene. Among them, seven passengers sustained injuries.
Damage
The aircraft sustained substantial damage and was declared damaged beyond repair.
Probable Cause
Official findings determined that the crew believed the Coca runway was short. To stop the aircraft on the runway without excessive brake usage, the crew decided to land as early as possible. This decision resulted in the aircraft landing 4.5 meters short. The published approach procedure requires a minimum altitude of 50 feet over the threshold. The Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) specifies a landing distance of 930 meters required at maximum landing weight with flaps set to 42°, speed brakes extended, lift dumpers armed, and anti-skid operative. The probable cause was identified as a wrong approach procedure on the part of the crew.