What happened
The seaplane departed Alameda Naval Air Station on a cross-country mission bound for Norfolk-Chambers Naval Air Station in Virginia. Shortly after liftoff, the aircraft encountered adverse meteorological conditions. While navigating through this poor weather, the plane struck the slope of a mountain situated near Livermore. The impact caused the airframe to ignite immediately.
The accident resulted in the deaths of six crew members. A seventh member of the flight deck sustained serious injuries during the event.
Findings
Official investigations determined that the crash was the result of a controlled flight into terrain.