What happened
During the final approach phase of flight, the pilot experienced a sudden yaw to the right accompanied by an audible muffled sound. Although the crew managed to regain directional control, the aircraft struck the ground with significant force short of the runway. The impact resulted in the collapse of the right main landing gear.
Following the touchdown, a post-crash fire broke out, which ultimately destroyed the aircraft type. Despite the severity of the impact and subsequent fire, both pilots escaped without injury.
Findings
An investigation into the incident revealed that the right engine was still producing power at the moment of impact, as evidenced by propeller slash marks found on the runway. A post-accident inspection of the engines and airframe did not identify any mechanical failures or malfunctions occurring prior to the crash.
The investigation concluded that the primary factors contributing to the accident were improper descent procedures and a failure to maintain the required airspeed. Additionally, the pilot's response in initiating a pull-up maneuver was delayed. The collapse of the main landing gear was attributed to an overload condition caused by the heavy landing.