What happened
During an ASR approach toward the destination airport, the pilot in command was managing the descent while the co-pilot attempted to establish visual contact with the airfield. The flight was operating under overcast and dark conditions, characterized by a ragged ceiling and a lack of a visible horizon.
As the aircraft descended through approximately 900 feet at a rate of 480 feet per minute, the co-pilot turned inward to monitor the cockpit radios. During this period, an impact was heard within the cabin. The aircraft struck a marshland area and crashed after the pilot in command had descended below the minimum descent altitude.
Findings
- The flight was conducting an ASR approach in heavy overcast conditions.
- The crew was operating in an environment with no visible horizon.
- The accident occurred because the pilot in command continued the descent below the authorized minimum altitude.