Accident Details
The aircraft was departing Cuzco-Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport on a flight to Lima. During the takeoff roll, which was 700 meters longer than normal, engine number three failed. The takeoff procedure was continued, as well as the initial climb at a speed of V2 + 15 knots. Once an altitude of 300 feet was reached, the flaps were retracted. At a speed of 140 knots, the aircraft turned left and then banked left at an angle of 30–45 degrees. Control was lost, and the airplane crashed onto a hill located about 4 km east of the airport.
Occupants and Casualties
The aircraft carried a crew of nine and 91 passengers, among them 49 US students who were returning to Lima following a visit to the Machu Picchu ruins. The copilot survived, while 99 other occupants and two people on the ground were killed.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was the improper execution of engine-out procedures by the flight crew, with contributing factors of improper loading of the aircraft and improper maintenance procedures by company personnel.