Aircraft crash in Atlanga lagoon during approach

2 fatalities • Atlangatepec, Mexico • Landing (descent or approach)

A positioning flight crashed into the Atlanga lagoon during a night approach under low visibility, resulting in the deaths of both crew members.

What happened

During a positioning flight from Puebla-Hermanos Serdán-Huejotzingo Airport toward Atlangatepec, the aircraft performed a low pass over runway 01. Following this maneuver, the crew began a go-around procedure with the intention of performing a circuit to land on runway 19.

As the flight continued on its final approach, the aircraft encountered restricted visibility caused by nighttime conditions and low-hanging clouds. During this phase, the aircraft struck the water surface and crashed into the Atlanga lagoon. The wreckage settled at a depth of approximately 30 meters, roughly 800 meters before reaching the runway threshold. The accident resulted in two fatalities, as both pilots were killed in the impact.

Findings

  • The accident occurred during the final approach phase.
  • Limited visibility due to darkness and low cloud cover was a significant factor during the approach to the lagoon.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the water during a night approach under conditions of low visibility and low cloud cover.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2008-12-07 Learjet 23 accident near Atlangatepec, Mexico?

A positioning flight crashed into the Atlanga lagoon during a night approach under low visibility, resulting in the deaths of both crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 2008-12-07 Learjet 23 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2008-12-07 involved a Learjet 23, registration XC-LGD, operated by Government of the State of Tlaxcala, at Atlangatepec, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the water during a night approach under conditions of low visibility and low cloud cover.

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