Good analysis Chris. The ATR72 does not handle well in such severe crosswind conditions.CErtainly it was an accident and quite certainly it would point toward "Pilot Error" as there was ample info to lead to a diversion to Campino..unless there was a dire emergency situation going on that could not await a diversion?? Too early to decide but quite apparent when airoort not inviting, and aircraft is ok...then GO Around...or GO Meet GOD..
ATR72 has a crosswind limit of 45 kts if I recall correct...but that is a steady wind.With windshear, especially tail shear as was this case I would be more conservative rather than be a maverick pilot. If as rumoured the Capt was a check Capt (15000hrs total/9k ATR) perhaps this was a check flight? If the PF was CM2 then OMs would dictate what the crosswind limit for CM2 is and am sure it would be much ,lower than 45kts. To maintain track for a 45kt crosswind the view from the cockpit t the runway would have looked interesting indeed
