Emergency landing attempt results in aircraft crash in Yucatán

No fatalities • Chichén Itzá, Mexico • Landing (descent or approach)

A single-engine aircraft crashed near Chichén Itzá Airport during an emergency diversion due to low fuel levels.

What happened

During a flight traveling from Monterrey toward Cancún, the pilot of a single-engine aircraft contacted air traffic control to report a critical fuel shortage. Due to the lack of remaining fuel, the pilot requested an emergency diversion to Chichén Itzá Airport within the Yucatán Province.

As the aircraft attempted to approach the airfield under nighttime conditions, it descended into a wooded area located a short distance from the airport. The impact with the trees resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There was no post-crash fire reported at the scene.

Findings

  • The flight was operating in a state of low fuel prior to the accident.
  • The crash occurred during the approach phase of flight.
  • All five individuals on board sustained injuries during the impact.

Probable cause

The aircraft crashed into trees while attempting an emergency landing due to insufficient fuel reserves.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2017-02-15 Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident near Chichén Itzá, Mexico?

A single-engine aircraft crashed near Chichén Itzá Airport during an emergency diversion due to low fuel levels.

Were there any fatalities in the 2017-02-15 Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2017-02-15 involved a Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class), registration N116TH, operated by Private United States of America, at Chichén Itzá, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft crashed into trees while attempting an emergency landing due to insufficient fuel reserves.

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