What happened
During an approach to Hoskins Airport, the flight crew encountered extremely adverse meteorological conditions characterized by thunderstorm activity and significant atmospheric instability. As the aircraft was descending, it was subjected to severe turbulence that resulted in a total loss of control. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ocean a few kilometers away from the coastline.
Of the total number of people on board, there were 14 fatalities and 3 survivors who were successfully rescued from the wreckage.
Findings
Investigations into the accident concluded that the primary factor leading to the loss of control was the presence of severe atmospheric turbulence encountered during the descent phase.