Incident Overview
At Colombo-Ratmalana Airport, an aircraft was conducting its takeoff roll. As the captain prepared to rotate, he suspected a technical problem and decided to abort the takeoff. Simultaneously, confusion arose in the cockpit. The copilot inadvertently retracted the landing gear, causing the aircraft to sink onto the runway.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft slid for several dozen meters before coming to a stop. Upon stopping, it burst into flames. The fire consumed the aircraft.
Casualties
Four passengers were killed in the accident. No other details about injuries or fatalities were provided.
Investigation
The investigation into the accident is ongoing. The probable cause has not yet been determined.