What happened
On 14 October 2004, an MK Airlines Limited Boeing 747-244SF, registered 9G-MKJ, was attempting a takeoff from Runway 2cap at Halifax International Airport. The aircraft was operating as a non-scheduled international cargo flight traveling from Halifax to Zaragoza, Spain. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft's lower aft fuselage made contact with the runway twice. The aircraft failed to rotate as expected and continued down the runway, overshooting the end by 825 feet.
After leaving the paved surface, the aircraft became airborne for a short distance before striking an earthen berm used for an instrument landing system antenna. The impact caused the tail section to separate from the fuselage. The remaining portion of the aircraft traveled another 1200 feet through the air before striking the terrain and bursting into flames. The impact and subsequent intense fire destroyed the aircraft, and all seven crew members on board sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's weight and balance, the takeoff performance, and the operational history of the crew and airline. The investigation looked into the accuracy of the runway slope data published in aeronautical charts and the presence of man-made structures, such as the earthen berm, in the runway overrun area.
Additionally, the TSB reviewed the airline's operational practices, including crew fatigue, duty time management, and the use of unverified electronic load planning software. The investigation also assessed the emergency response, noting difficulties in communication and delays in obtaining critical information regarding the number of persons on board and the presence of dangerous goods from air traffic controllers.