Overview
The accident occurred during an approach to Monterrey-Del Norte Airport. The crew had been cleared to descend to 5,000 feet. Weather conditions were poor, with rain and limited visibility due to fog. The aircraft subsequently impacted the slope of Mount Cerro de Las Mitras, located approximately 22 kilometers from the airport. The aircraft was destroyed, and all three occupants were killed.
Accident Sequence
The flight was approaching Monterrey-Del Norte Airport when air traffic control cleared the crew to descend to 5,000 feet. The prevailing weather included rain and fog, reducing visibility. For reasons that remain unknown, the crew continued their descent below the assigned 5,000-foot altitude. The aircraft then struck the terrain of Cerro de Las Mitras, situated roughly 22 kilometers from the airport. The collision destroyed the aircraft and resulted in the deaths of all three occupants.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be controlled flight into terrain after the crew failed to maintain the minimum safe altitude of 5,000 feet as instructed by air traffic control. The investigation also cited as a contributing factor the lack of visibility due to poor weather conditions.