What happened
During a nighttime final approach to Chicago-O'Hare Airport, the flight crew attempted an aborted landing procedure. While flying at an altitude of approximately 200 feet, the captain initiated a go-around maneuver. During this transition, the aircraft lost sufficient altitude and made contact with the ground before flipping onto its back and striking a hangar.
The accident resulted in 28 fatalities, including three crew members, 24 passengers, and one individual on the ground. Additionally, 18 injuries were reported following the impact.
Findings
Investigations into the crash determined that the pilot experienced spatial disorientation. This condition was triggered by atmospheric refraction affecting either the landing lights or the approach lighting system. The phenomenon occurred at a critical moment when the crew was switching their primary method of navigation from flight instruments to visual ground references.