Incident Overview
A cargo flight operating on behalf of the US Army departed Norfolk Naval Air Station with a load of 12,000 pounds of various goods. The planned route included an intermediate stop at Knoxville before continuing to Oklahoma City. However, as weather conditions deteriorated at Knoxville, air traffic control diverted the flight to Chattanooga.
Approach and Collision
Upon arrival at Chattanooga, the crew conducted an approach in conditions reported as a ceiling of 900 feet. The aircraft descended below a safe altitude while still on the approach, and subsequently struck trees. The impact caused the left wing to separate from the airframe. The aircraft continued and crashed approximately 2,660 feet short of the runway threshold.
Injuries and Damage
The aircraft was destroyed in the accident. Both crew members on board sustained serious injuries.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause was the crew's decision to continue the approach below the glidepath without any visual contact with the ground.