atse,
Seems to me that I understand what went on at Girona somewhat better than others...at least from some of the comments here.
A few say 'fatigue' was an issue.
If it was, the pilot should not have made the flight in the first place.
Either you're fit or you are not...not all that much in between.
If you can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.
Fuel state has been covered before. Certainly not enough for the intended flight, concerning the weather anticipated.
I simply cannot understand the 'press on regardless' ideas that some pilots have. A Commander with the experience level that the ill-fated flight had should have absolutely known better.
Then, to top it off, he grabs the controls from the First Officer, and tries for the dirty dive, which is very bad news in any jet transport aircraft.
It would appear that his handling skills were poor as well. Too much 'automatics' at work perhaps? You be the judge.
As I said before, a lesson for all of how not to fly an aircraft.