Accident Overview
While descending to Lajes Airport, the crew encountered very poor weather conditions and limited visibility due to the night, low clouds, and heavy rain. On short final, the pilot failed to realize his altitude was too low. The aircraft struck the top of a hill located 1,500 metres short of the runway 16 threshold and crashed in flames. The aircraft was destroyed and all 68 occupants were killed.
Victims
Among the deceased were members of the Venezuelan choir Orfeón Universitario, who were flying to Barcelona, Spain, to participate in an international festival.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, weather conditions were poor with heavy rain and winds gusting to 30 knots. The hurricane 'Emmy' had passed over the Azores Islands that day, contributing to the adverse weather.