Fatal aircraft crash following takeoff from Tijuana

3 fatalities • Tijuana-General Abelardo L. Rodríguez, Mexico • Takeoff (climb)

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a garage near Tijuana-General Abelardo L. Rodríguez Airport shortly after takeoff, resulting in three fatalities.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from runway 09 at Tijuana-General Abelardo L. Rodríguez Airport, a twin engine aircraft experienced an uncontrolled descent. The aircraft lost stability and struck a garage building, which subsequently ignited into a large fire.

As a result of the impact and the resulting fire, there were 3 fatalities recorded. The victims included both occupants of the aircraft and one individual who was inside a vehicle at the time of the crash.

Findings

No specific technical cause for the loss of control has been officially released, though the aircraft's descent became uncontrolled immediately after the takeoff sequence.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent during the initial climb phase following takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2011-10-31 Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) accident near Tijuana-General Abelardo L. Rodríguez, Mexico?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a garage near Tijuana-General Abelardo L. Rodríguez Airport shortly after takeoff, resulting in three fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 2011-10-31 Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2011-10-31 involved a Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601), registration N76VK, operated by Francisco Zermeño, at Tijuana-General Abelardo L. Rodríguez, Mexico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent during the initial climb phase following takeoff.

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