What happened
During the early stages of flight departing from Pemba Airport, the aircraft encountered significant mechanical difficulties. While the plane was in its climbing phase, the crew identified issues with one of the engines and subsequently declared an emergency state.
In an attempt to manage the situation, the flight crew received clearance to perform a return to the airport. As the aircraft began executing a turn to head back toward the runway, an engine ignited into flames. This fire caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable, leading to a crash at the site. The impact resulted in a post-crash fire.
Out of all those on board, 44 fatalities were recorded, while 5 passengers were successfully rescued from the wreckage.
Findings
Official investigations into the accident concluded that the primary factor was an engine fire occurring for reasons that remain undetermined.