Accident Overview
A ferry flight returning from maintenance in Chişinău to Khartoum via Antalya ended in a crash shortly after takeoff. The aircraft was carrying four passengers, four crew members, and a load consisting of two tons of oil and various equipment.
Sequence of Events
Shortly after takeoff, during initial climb, the crew reported a transponder failure to air traffic control and was cleared for an immediate return. On final approach, the aircraft flew too low, struck the ILS antenna, and crashed in a field approximately 200 meters short of the runway. The aircraft burst into flames upon impact.
Fatalities and Damage
All eight occupants, including four technicians, were killed. The aircraft was totally destroyed by a post-crash fire.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the accident was the consequence of a premature descent on the part of the crew, combined with an incorrect evaluation of altitude while completing a visual approach by night. The crew's limited experience with night flights was considered a contributing factor.