What happened
During an approach to Florianópolis-Hercílio Luz Airport, the flight crew encountered severe weather characterized by heavy rainfall and thunderstorm activity. Due to these conditions, the captain decided to abort the initial landing attempt and performed a go-around.
While attempting a second approach a few minutes later, the aircraft drifted off its intended course and descended below the required glideslope. During this maneuver, the plane was traveling at a speed exceeding the prescribed limits. The aircraft eventually struck the summit of a hill approximately 26 km from the airport, resulting in a post-impact fire. Of the occupants on board, 55 fatalities were recorded, while three passengers were successfully rescued.
Findings
The investigation concluded that the crew miscalculated the necessary altitude, speed, and distance during the approach amidst marginal visibility. Several contributing factors were identified, including:
- Inadequate coordination between the crew members
- A lack of effective flight supervision
- Improper engine management
- Failure by the pilot-in-command to execute a second go-around when necessary
- Reduced visibility caused by adverse weather conditions