Accident Details
The aircraft was conducting an uneventful flight from Davison Army Airfield (Fort Belvoir) to Naval Air Station Patuxent River. While on approach at an altitude of about 800 feet, it entered an uncontrolled descent and subsequently crashed into the Chesapeake Bay. The wreckage sank to a depth of 45 feet and was located less than 100 yards from shore. All five crew members aboard were killed.
Investigation
The aircraft was operated by the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) and bore both a civil registration, N296CA, and a military registration, 88-0321. Investigators examined the wreckage and operational data to determine the sequence of events leading to the accident.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the crew mistakenly selected beta range on the propellers while on final approach at an altitude of 800 feet. This action caused the aircraft to enter an uncontrolled descent, resulting in the crash.