TACA Flight 390, operated by TACA International Airlines, experienced a catastrophic accident upon landing at Toncontín International Airport in Tegucigalpa. The airport is notorious for its difficult approach due to mountainous terrain and a short runway, making landings particularly treacherous. As the Boeing 737-300 descended on a rainy afternoon, it failed to stop on the runway, which was slick from the weather conditions. The plane barreled through the airport perimeter and onto a nearby road, striking several vehicles before coming to rest.

The aftermath of the crash resulted in five fatalities, including three passengers aboard the aircraft and two individuals on the ground. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, but the quick response could not prevent the loss of life. The incident stirred significant media attention and raised questions about the safety of operations at the airport, known for its challenging landing environment. Investigations into the crash focused on pilot error, weather conditions, and potential airport safety measures.

Following the accident, regulatory bodies began reviewing safety protocols at Toncontín, examining both operational procedures and the airport’s infrastructure. The event highlighted the risks faced by airlines operating in and out of difficult terrain airports, spurring a broader discussion about aviation safety in such locations. It reinforced the importance of adhering to stringent safety measures and improving pilot training for operations in adverse conditions.