What happened
During a flight originating from Ambon, the crew received clearance to begin their descent toward Sorong-Jefman Airport. While performing the final approach, the flight encountered significant visibility issues caused by heavy rainfall. Due to these conditions, the pilot did not maintain a sufficient altitude for the approach.
As the aircraft reached the short final phase of the landing, it collided with a promontory situated approximately 3,000 feet before the threshold of runway 22. The force of the impact caused the left main landing gear to be severed from the airframe. Following the collision, the aircraft came to rest in shallow water. The accident resulted in 41 fatalities and the rescue of two passengers.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was insufficient altitude during the final approach.
- Heavy rain significantly reduced visibility for the crew during the descent phase.