What happened
On a scheduled survey mission over the Atlantic Ocean, a twin engine airplane departed from Ponta Delgada Airport at 1449LT. The flight's objective was to locate tuna shoals, and the crew consisted of one pilot, one observer, and two passengers.
At 1751LT, following the conclusion of the survey, the pilot received clearance to descend toward Horta Airport. While performing the final approach to runway 29, the aircraft was cleared for landing. During this phase of flight, the plane initiated a right-hand turn, during which it lost altitude. The aircraft subsequently crashed approximately 600 meters to the right of the runway 29 extended centerline.
Findings
The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. There were four fatalities recorded, as all occupants on board were killed in the accident.