What happened
During the final approach phase toward Rio de Janeiro-Santos Dumont Airport, the flight crew encountered intense atmospheric turbulence. As the aircraft progressed through the final segment of its approach, it made contact with the ground before reaching the runway threshold.
The force of the impact caused significant structural damage, specifically shearing off the right main landing gear and damaging the right engine. In an effort to maintain control and safety, the pilot in command applied increased power to both engines and elected to divert the flight to Rio de Janeiro-Galeão Airport.
Upon arriving at Galeão Airport and touching down, the aircraft became uncontrollable. The subsequent accident resulted in a post-crash fire that consumed the airframe. Although the four crew members were successfully rescued from the wreckage, the aircraft was destroyed.
Findings
- Severe turbulence encountered during final approach.
- Impact with terrain short of the runway threshold.
- Loss of control following touchdown at the diversion airport.