McDonnell Douglas DC-9-31 Crash in Uruapan (XA-TNK)

Flight Details and Accident Overview On November 9, 1999, a McDonnell Douglas DC-9-31 operated by Transportes Aéreos Ejecutivos, S.A. de C.V. crashed approximately 3.3 nautical miles from Uruapan Airport in Michoacán, Mexico. The aircraft was en route from Uruapan to Mexico City, having previously stopped in Tijuana and Guadalajara. The flight carried five crew members and thirteen passengers. ## Sequence of Events The aircraft departed Uruapan Airport on runway 20 under instrument flight rules. After takeoff, the crew reported they would climb to 5,000 feet. The tower subsequently lost all communication with the aircraft and activated emergency rescue services. The wreckage was located in an avocado orchard in the Municipality of Uruapan. A post-impact fire occurred but was extinguished. ## Investigation Findings The investigation determined that the aircraft's engines and all systems were functioning normally at the time of the accident. The aircraft was operating within its weight and balance limits, and the runway was of sufficient length for the operation. Meteorological conditions were favorable, with clear skies and calm winds. ## Probable Cause The probable cause was determined to be a stall following an over-rotated takeoff and a climb at a very steep angle, which resulted in a loss of control and spatial disorientation. This occurred during an instrument flight operation in which the crew reported a possible indication failure of the leading-edge slats asymmetry, while neglecting the control of the aircraft.