Incident Overview
A passenger aircraft en route from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam to Hickam Air Force Base in Honolulu experienced engine problems in flight. The crew reported the issue, and the captain decided to divert to Wake Island Airport for an emergency landing.
Sequence of Events
During the approach to Wake Island, on short final, the aircraft descended too low and struck the approach lights. The impact tore off the empennage, and the aircraft crashed in flames. Rescue efforts saved 45 occupants, but 11 passengers were killed. The aircraft was destroyed in the accident.
Official Findings
The probable cause of the accident was determined to be engine problems in flight.