Accident Sequence
According to witnesses, the aircraft made a normal approach to runway 33 with no apparent abnormalities. When the aircraft was about 200 feet above the approach lights, witnesses heard an increase in engine thrust and the descent stopped. Two pilot witnesses believed the aircrew initiated a go-around. Immediately thereafter, the aircraft began an apparent level turn to the right. As the aircraft turned through approximately 90 degrees of turn, the bank angle increased to nearly 90 degrees. The aircraft's nose then dropped, and it crashed in a nose-low attitude and burned.
Aircraft Configuration
An investigation revealed that the landing gear was extended and the flaps were partially extended. The aileron trim actuator was found in a full left wing down position, and the elevator was trimmed near a full nose up position. The right spoiler actuator was found in a full extended position, while the left spoiler actuator was found in a retracted position, which was indicative of an asymmetric spoiler configuration.
Investigation Findings
Radar data indicated that the crew had extended the spoilers during the last part of the descent and approach. No reason was found for the improper spoiler operation.