What happened
On a government mission identified as VR5301, a twin-engine aircraft was traveling from Campo de Priguiça toward Praia. The flight was transporting the Prime Minister and his staff, along with three crew members. As the flight approached Praia-Francisco Mendes Airport, the aircraft encountered significant meteorological challenges, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorm activity.
During the approach, the crew received clearance to perform a low pass over runway 22 followed by a sharp left-hand turn. During this maneuver, the tip of the left wing made contact with the ground. This impact caused the aircraft to lose control, leading to a crash approximately 150 meters from the threshold of runway 04. The accident resulted in one fatality and 21 injuries, with four of the injured individuals sustaining serious wounds.
Findings
- The aircraft encountered severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms and heavy rain, during the approach phase.
- The left wing tip struck the ground while the crew was executing a sharp turn following a low pass over the runway.