What happened
The incident involved a VP-HDN-6 aircraft operating out of Whidbey Island Naval Air Station. During the approach for landing, the aircraft experienced a water-looping event, causing it to strike the water surface and subsequently sink. The accident resulted in significant loss of life, with four crew members killed. In the aftermath of the crash, two other individuals were successfully rescued from the water.
Findings
The primary mechanical or operational factor leading to the accident was the aircraft's failure to maintain proper attitude during the final approach, resulting in a water-loop. This specific flight phase error caused the immediate loss of control and subsequent sinking of the airframe.