Accident Details
On approach to Cuenca-Mariscal Lamar Airport, a four-engine airplane descended through poor weather conditions and collided with the slope of a mountain in the Cajas Mountain Range. The impact occurred approximately 40 km north of the intended destination. The wreckage was located several hours after the crash. All 33 persons on board were killed.
Investigation Findings
Investigators determined that at the time of the accident, the aircraft was operating in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The crew, however, was conducting the approach under visual flight rules (VFR) mode.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident, as stated in the official findings, was that the crew was flying VFR mode in adverse weather conditions, resulting in a controlled flight into terrain.