Flight and Approach Conditions
The flight from Nampula proceeded without incident until the approach to Maputo. Adverse weather conditions at the destination prompted air traffic control to vector the aircraft into a holding pattern. After completing two circuits in the hold, the captain chose to begin the descent, notwithstanding ATC's notification of very poor conditions at the airport. At that time, visibility was severely reduced due to nighttime darkness, heavy rainfall, thunderstorm activity, turbulence, and lightning.
Final Approach and Impact
During the final approach to runway 23, the aircraft descended too low and struck the ground short of the runway. The impact occurred with the aircraft in a slight nose-up attitude. Upon contact, the aircraft broke into two sections and came to rest in a field.
Occupants and Damage
All 17 occupants aboard evacuated the aircraft with minor injuries. The aircraft itself was destroyed in the accident.