What happened
During an approach to Newark airport, an aircraft traveling from Buffalo encountered challenging weather conditions characterized by light rain, fog, and a ceiling of 400 feet. While executing an ILS approach monitored by Ground Controlled Approach (GCA), the aircraft drifted left of its intended glide path. At an altitude of approximately 400 feet, the plane disappeared from radar screens due to ground interference.
The aircraft maintained a relatively level flight attitude for roughly 1,300 feet before striking an obstacle and crashing into several homes in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The impact occurred approximately three miles from the threshold of runway 06. The collision resulted in a fire that destroyed some nearby structures. The accident resulted in 30 fatalities, including all 23 occupants on the aircraft and seven individuals on the ground, while 9 others sustained injuries.
Findings
Investigation into the incident noted that weather conditions below 4,000 feet at Newark were conducive to the formation of carburetor ice. Additionally, visibility and ceiling heights near the crash site were reported as being even lower than those recorded at the airport. The aircraft was traveling in an easterly direction when it struck the buildings.