What happened
During a flight originating from Patuxent River NAS, an aircraft was performing its approach to Argentia NAS when it struck the water. The incident occurred while the crew was on final approach and the aircraft impacted the Bay of Plancetia approximately 1,000 feet before reaching the runway threshold.
The impact resulted in the total destruction of the four-engine aircraft. Of the individuals on board, eleven fatalities were recorded, and 18 injuries were reported, with several passengers sustaining serious harm.
Findings
Investigations into the crash indicated that the crew failed to maintain a sufficient altitude during the descent. The primary factor in the accident was an unrecognized low altitude during the approach phase.