1988-06-03: Rockwell Sabreliner 40 (FAE068) — Ecuadorian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana — Quito-Mariscal Sucre (City), Ecuador

11 fatalitiesQuito-Mariscal Sucre (City), EcuadorLanding (descent or approach)

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.