Accident Details
During final approach to Auckland-Ardmore Airport, the aircraft's speed increased from 165 to 211 knots. The pilot-in-command (first officer) completed a last turn to join runway 05 but was unable to locate it due to heavy showers. The aircraft descended too low, struck the water surface, and crashed in shallow water 1,025 meters short of the runway 05 threshold.
Occupants and Injuries
A pilot and a passenger were killed, while two other occupants sustained injuries.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the accident was probably caused by the crew being misled by a visual illusion in conditions of reduced visibility, leading them to believe they were at a safe height. Consequently, they failed to monitor flight instruments sufficiently to confirm the aircraft maintained a safe approach path. The accident was the consequence of a controlled flight into terrain.