What happened
On a nighttime charter flight traveling from Hawthorne, California, to Santa Maria, a twin engine airplane experienced a critical mechanical failure. The aircraft was transporting two pilots and six staff members from the Martin Aircraft Group at the time of the incident.
During the final approach phase of the flight, one of the engines ceased to function properly. This loss of power caused the aircraft to descend rapidly. While attempting to manage the descent, the plane collided with trees and came to rest within an eucalyptus forest. The impact resulted in eight fatalities, with no survivors among the crew or passengers.
Findings
- The accident occurred during a night approach.
- A loss of power in one engine was the primary factor leading to the loss of altitude and subsequent collision with vegetation.