The aircraft had first entered service with Iberia new in 1954 and was named "Santa Maria".

As the plane came in on final approach, fog started to settle in and blocked view of the runway, and the approach controller informed the crew that visibility was below minimal.

As he applied full power, the aircraft struck a scraper, a tractor and a minivan about 50 metres (160 ft) from the runway centerline.

The plane was damaged and could not gain altitude, causing it to crash in the Los Rodeos gorge besides the runway.

The post-accident investigation faulted the pilot for not diverting to Las Palmas.