What happened
On the date of the incident, a single-engine aircraft operated by the Uganda Peoples Defence Force Air Wing was performing a transport mission to Nzara, South Sudan. The aircraft was carrying four officers at the time of departure from Arua Airport. During the initial climb, the aircraft experienced significant issues maintaining its altitude. This loss of lift caused the plane to strike a tree before descending into an open field situated close to the village of Mingeloro.
Upon impact, the aircraft caught fire. Despite the intensity of the post-crash flames, all seven occupants managed to exit the wreckage. The incident resulted in minor injuries for those on board, but the aircraft was completely destroyed by the resulting fire.
Findings
- The aircraft struggled to achieve sufficient altitude immediately following takeoff.
- Collision with a tree during the climb phase led to the subsequent crash and fire.