Part 4/11:
The path to Bilbao posed inherent dangers, especially under the conditions that evening. Nestled within a mountainous region and bordering the sea, the airport faced unpredictable winds and turbulence. As the Iberia flight descended, it encountered the notorious mountain wave rotors, which could create perilous wind shear close to the ground. The crew had been warned not to attempt landings when winds exceeded 20 knots. Despite this, they proceeded, emboldened by their prior commitment to safety.