What happened
During the final approach phase of the flight, observers noted the aircraft appeared to be on a standard approach path. However, the aircraft subsequently lost airspeed and altitude, descending at a low speed. During this descent, the landing gear was retracted, and the plane drifted to the left, eventually striking a line of trees.
Radar information corroborated the loss of airspeed immediately preceding the impact. The accident resulted in four fatalities, with no survivors among the occupants.
Findings
Post-accident inspections of the propulsion systems identified the primary cause of the descent. Investigators determined that the left engine suffered a failure caused by a fatigue failure of a compressor turbine blade. In contrast, the right engine showed no signs of mechanical issues and was capable of producing full power at the time of the incident. The flight crew was noted to be highly trained and experienced.