Accident Overview
A maritime patrol aircraft crashed into the Atlantic Ocean approximately 310 miles east of the Virginia coast during a flight originating from Brunswick, Maine. The aircraft lost control while cruising at altitude and descended into the water. The crew was unable to transmit any distress call prior to the accident. Following the crash, debris was discovered floating on the ocean surface.
Crew and Aircraft
The aircraft was carrying a crew of 11 personnel. All 11 crew members were killed in the accident. The specific type of aircraft was not disclosed in the investigation findings.
Investigation
Investigators assessed the available evidence but were unable to determine a definitive cause for the loss of control and crash. The official probable cause statement notes that due to a lack of evidence, the exact cause could not be identified. However, the investigation concluded that the accident may have resulted from a technical or structural failure that caused the fuselage to disintegrate while in flight. No further details were provided regarding potential failures or contributing factors.