On January 2, 1998, a Learjet 24 (registration XA-RRK) operated by Aerodinamo del Pacifico was involved in an aviation accident near Tampico-General Francisco Javier Mina, Mexico during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew attempted a visual approach during heavy fog, which caused the aircraft to descend below safe altitude limits. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A flight approaching Tampico, Mexico, crashed into a lagoon after descending below safe altitude limits during poor visibility.
What happened
During an approach to the Tampico-General Francisco Javier Mina Airport, the crew attempted to follow the Instrument Landing System (ILS) guidance. However, the aircraft descended beneath both the glide slope and the minimum descent altitude. This descent resulted in the plane striking the ground and crashing into a lagoon situated approximately 12.8 km before reaching the runway.
The accident resulted in three fatalities, including the pilot and two passengers, while five other occupants sustained injuries. The impact caused the total destruction of the aircraft.
Findings
Investigations determined that the crew chose to proceed with the approach using Visual Flight Rules (VFR) despite being in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) characterized by fog. This decision led to the aircraft dropping below the required minimum altitude prior to the collision with the terrain.
Probable cause
The crew attempted a visual approach during heavy fog, which caused the aircraft to descend below safe altitude limits.
