Accident Overview
A four-engine aircraft, en route from Tenerife to Las Palmas, was completing a flight to transport 70 soldiers who were to embark at Las Palmas. The descent to Gando Airport was initiated from the west under marginal weather conditions. In limited visibility due to clouds, the aircraft struck the slope of Mt Hoya del Gamonal, located approximately 17 kilometers northwest of the airport. The aircraft was destroyed, and all 10 occupants were killed.
Approach Path
For unknown reasons, the crew initiated the approach from the west over the island instead of following the northern coast of the island. The descent path led directly to the terrain.
Official Findings
The official probable cause of the accident was determined to be controlled flight into terrain.