What happened
During the final approach phase toward runway 08 at Kirtland Air Force Base, the flight crew encountered significant crosswinds reaching speeds of 35 knots. As the aircraft passed over the runway threshold at an altitude of approximately 200 feet, a right-hand bank occurred which resulted in engine number six making contact with the runway surface. This impact caused severe damage to the engine and ignited a fire.
In an attempt to recover from the strike, the pilot in command initiated a go-around maneuver. However, during this process, the aircraft's nose pitched downward, leading to a crash and a large explosion. The accident resulted in 23 fatalities and left two passengers with serious injuries.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the primary contributing factor was the presence of strong crosswinds gusting up to 35 knots during the approach to Kirtland AFB. Additionally, investigators determined that the crew utilized an improper approach configuration and that the pilot in command's reaction to the situation was excessive, which directly led to the right-hand bank and subsequent engine strike.