What happened
During a night approach to Namsos Airport, the flight crew encountered heavy rainfall that significantly reduced visibility. While operating in conditions below the established weather minima, the aircraft descended below the minimum safe altitude. This descent led to the aircraft striking the ground in a swampy region situated roughly 6 km short of the runway.
The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. Of the people on board, six fatalities were recorded, which included both the pilot and the co-pilot. Additionally, 13 other occupants sustained injuries during the accident.
Findings
- The crew operated the aircraft in weather conditions that were below the required visibility minimums.
- The aircraft descended below the minimum safe altitude prior to the impact with the terrain.