What happened
A scheduled passenger flight ended in a fatal accident during the descent phase of the flight. Prior to the crash, the aircraft departed without an established flight plan. During the approach, the crew attempted to maneuver the aircraft to remain within visual flight rules (VFR) conditions.
At the time of the incident, observers on the ground reported experiencing intense thunderstorms and extremely heavy rainfall in the area. The aircraft lost contact with air traffic services during this period. Following a search, the wreckage was discovered the following day. Physical evidence at the crash site indicated that the aircraft struck the terrain at a high rate of speed while in a 50-degree nose-down attitude.
Findings
- The flight was operating without a filed flight plan.
- The crew was actively attempting to avoid deteriorating weather to maintain VFR.
- Severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and thunderstorms, were present at the site.
- The impact occurred with the aircraft in a steep, downward pitch.