19 fatalities

2001-09-12: Let L-410 (XA-ACM) — Aero Ferinco — Chichén Itzá, Mexico

Chichén Itzá, MexicoTakeoff (climb)

On September 12, 2001, a Let L-410 (registration XA-ACM) operated by Aero Ferinco was involved in an aviation accident near Chichén Itzá, Mexico during takeoff. 19 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the aircraft rolled through 2,100 of the 2,800 metres of runway 28 and that the right engine failed while its propeller autofeathered. Investigations were unable to determine the exact cause of the right engine failure. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781202422Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after takeoff from runway 28 at Chichén Itzá Airport, the aircraft rolled right, stalled, and crashed in a wooded area. All 19 occupants, including US, Canadian, and Mexican nationals, were killed. The right engine failed and autofeathered; appropriate flight techniques were not applied.

Accident

Shortly after departing from runway 28 at Chichén Itzá Airport, the aircraft was climbing to about 500 feet when it rolled to the right, entered a stall, and crashed in a wooded area roughly one kilometer beyond the runway end. A post-crash fire completely destroyed the aircraft. All 19 occupants were killed, including citizens of the United States and Canada, three Mexican nationals, both pilots, and a local tour guide.

Investigation

Investigators determined that during the takeoff roll, the aircraft traveled 2,100 meters of the 2,800-meter-long runway 28. The right engine failed, and its propeller autofeathered. The exact cause of the right engine failure could not be determined.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause states that the right engine failed and its propeller autofeathered, and that the crew did not apply appropriate flight techniques.