11 fatalities

Fatal crash near Quito-Mariscal Sucre Airport (FAE068)

Quito-Mariscal Sucre (City), EcuadorLanding (descent or approach)

On June 3, 1988, a Rockwell Sabreliner 40 (registration FAE068) operated by Ecuadorian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana was involved in an aviation accident near Quito-Mariscal Sucre (City), Ecuador during landing or approach. 11 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck a hill while performing a nighttime final approach to the airport. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-13Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into a hillside during its final approach to Quito, resulting in the deaths of all 11 people on board.

What happened

During a nighttime flight approaching Quito-Mariscal Sucre Airport, an aircraft impacted the summit of a hill. The collision occurred several kilometers away from the runway threshold while the plane was in its final approach phase. The impact resulted in a crash that caused 11 fatalities, with no survivors reported among the occupants.

Findings

The investigation into the accident established that the aircraft struck elevated terrain during the descent toward the airfield. The incident claimed the lives of several high-ranking military officials, including the Chief of the Ecuadorian Air Force and other senior officers.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a hill while performing a nighttime final approach to the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Jun 1988 Rockwell Sabreliner 40 accident near Quito-Mariscal Sucre (City), Ecuador?

An aircraft crashed into a hillside during its final approach to Quito, resulting in the deaths of all 11 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jun 1988 Rockwell Sabreliner 40 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 11 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Jun 1988 involved a Rockwell Sabreliner 40, registration FAE068, operated by Ecuadorian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana, at Quito-Mariscal Sucre (City), Ecuador.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck a hill while performing a nighttime final approach to the airport.