Approach and Go-Around
As the aircraft approached Phnom Penh-Pochentong Airport, the crew faced poor weather conditions with heavy rainfall, which severely limited visibility. The captain was unable to establish visual contact with the runway and decided to perform a go-around.
Second Landing Attempt
A few minutes later, the crew initiated a second attempt to land. During this approach, the captain continued the descent below the glide path and descended past the minimum descent altitude (MDA). The flight engineer, the copilot, and air traffic control each warned the captain that the aircraft's altitude was insufficient for a safe landing. Despite these warnings, the captain did not correct the situation.
Final Moments and Crash
The aircraft subsequently struck palm trees, entered an aerodynamic stall, and crashed into a rice paddy field approximately 300 meters before the runway threshold.
Injuries and Fatalities
Among the occupants, a one-year-old boy sustained injuries. The remaining 65 occupants were killed in the accident.