What happened
During a return flight to North Island-Halsey Field NAS after completing a maritime patrol mission, the crew experienced a critical mechanical issue. While performing the final approach to the airfield, one of the engines ceased functioning properly.
This loss of power led to an aerodynamic stall of the aircraft type. Consequently, the plane descended into the ocean, impacting the water approximately four miles before reaching runway 36. Despite the impact and the loss of the aircraft, all seven crew members were successfully recovered from the site.
Findings
Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was an engine failure occurring during the final approach phase of the flight.