What happened
While operating a flight from Juba to El Obeid, the aircraft was cruising at an altitude of 24,000 feet when all four engines experienced a simultaneous flameout. In response to the loss of power, the crew feathered the propellers and began a descent to a lower altitude. During the attempt to perform an emergency landing, the aircraft collided with trees and struck the ground.
The accident resulted in six fatalities and one person who sustained serious injuries. Although one occupant survived the initial impact, they succumbed to their injuries several hours later, bringing the total death toll to seven.
Findings
Data regarding the aircraft's recent operations indicates a potential fuel imbalance. Since May 9, the aircraft had been conducting multiple round trips between Juba and El Obeid. During these operations, an average of 9,018 kg of fuel was loaded in El Obeid, whereas the typical fuel consumption for a single round trip was approximately 10,000 kg. This discrepancy suggests that the aircraft may have been operating with insufficient fuel reserves for the intended mission profile.