This specific air travel tragedy, involving a McDonnell Douglas MD-83 operating between Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, tragically ended on January 31, 2000, in the waters of the Pacific Ocean near Point Mugu, California. The accident resulted in the loss of all 88 individuals on board 83 passengers and 5 crew members. The incident involved a complete loss of control due to a jammed horizontal stabilizer.
The event holds significant weight in aviation history due to the subsequent investigations and resulting changes in aircraft maintenance procedures and regulations. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation revealed critical issues with the jackscrew lubrication system, prompting immediate reviews and modifications across the industry to prevent similar occurrences. This tragedy significantly influenced the understanding of mechanical wear, lubrication requirements, and the criticality of rigorous maintenance protocols in ensuring flight safety. The investigations findings underscored the importance of proactive safety measures and the need for continuous improvements in aircraft design and maintenance practices.