7 fatalities

2005-02-24: IAI 1124 Westwind (XC-COL) — Government of the State of Colima — El Devanador, Mexico

El Devanador, MexicoFlight

On February 24, 2005, an IAI 1124 Westwind (registration XC-COL) operated by Government of the State of Colima was involved in an aviation accident near El Devanador, Mexico in flight. 7 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft experienced an uncontrolled descent and loss of control stemming from potential flight control malfunctions or stability issues. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781199775Data APIEditorial standards

A flight traveling from Toluca to Colima crashed in mountainous terrain after encountering control difficulties during the cruise phase.

What happened

On a scheduled flight from Toluca Airport to Colima, an aircraft carrying seven people—including two pilots and five members of the Colima Government—encountered significant technical issues. Approximately fifteen minutes after departing at 15:16 local time, while maintaining an altitude of 16,000 feet, the crew notified air traffic control regarding difficulties with the aircraft's controls. In response to this emergency, the flight was authorized to divert to Morelia Airport.

Shortly after the notification, the aircraft began an uncontrolled descent. The plane eventually crashed into a mountainous and heavily wooded area situated near El Devanador. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and caused seven fatalities, leaving no survivors among the occupants.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified several potential contributing factors regarding the loss of control during the cruise phase. Investigators examined a possible malfunction involving the horizontal stabilizer actuator as a primary concern. Additionally, the investigation considered whether an abrupt change in the aircraft's attitude occurred due to the specific position of the center of gravity.

Other elements under review included the possibility that the crew did not properly manage the emergency or failed to adequately monitor flight control positions and indications during the descent.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced an uncontrolled descent and loss of control stemming from potential flight control malfunctions or stability issues.