Flight Summary
The flight from Manaus proceeded without incident until the descent to Rio Branco–Presidente Médici Airport, where the crew prepared for landing on runway 06. Weather conditions were marginal with fog limiting visibility.
Approach and Descent
During the descent, the crew passed the minimum descent altitude (MDA) at 1,150 feet and continued the approach with a rate of descent of 1,222 feet per minute. At a height of 57 feet, the aircraft struck trees located 360 meters short of the runway threshold. Following the impact, the engines lost power, causing the aircraft to lose speed and height. It then struck the ground approximately 100 meters short of the runway.
Impact and Aftermath
Upon ground impact, the landing gear was torn off. The aircraft slid for 600 meters before coming to rest. All 95 occupants evacuated without injury; the aircraft was destroyed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation identified the probable cause as poor approach configuration by the flying crew, who continued the descent after passing the MDA without the aircraft being stabilized and without visual contact with obstacles on short final. Contributing factors included: ingestion of tree debris into the engines leading to power loss; crew complacency; pressure and stress; visual perception issues; violation of standard operating procedures; loss of situational awareness; lack of crew resource management; poor approach and landing planning; adverse weather; and the copilot's relatively low experience.