What happened
During the final approach phase at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport, a twin engine aircraft experienced a sudden loss of control. Prior to the accident, air traffic control had issued a warning to the pilot regarding potential wake turbulence from a preceding Boeing 727. Despite this caution, the aircraft continued its descent and subsequently dove into the ground several miles before reaching the runway threshold.
The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. There were four fatalities among the occupants, with no survivors reported from the crash site.
Findings
Investigations into the accident determined that the crew failed to adhere to established flight procedures during the approach. The aircraft's flight path placed it approximately 95 seconds behind and below the trajectory of the landing Boeing 727, exposing the plane to significant-disturbing air currents. The primary factor in the loss of control was the pilot's failure to follow approved procedures while operating within the wake turbulence of a larger aircraft.