What happened
During the departure phase of a flight operated by Air Senegal, the aircraft experienced a significant mechanical failure. Following a standard takeoff roll and rotation, the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 100 feet when the left engine ceased functioning. This loss of power led to an aerodynamic stall, causing the aircraft to crash less than 100 meters beyond the runway threshold. The impact caused the airframe to break into two sections; the forward portion disintegrated upon hitting the ground, while much of the rear cabin remained relatively intact.
The accident resulted in 23 fatalities, which included all three crew members on board. Despite the severity of the crash and the subsequent fire, 29 survivors were rescued from the wreckage.
Findings
Investigations into the disaster focused on several contributing factors, including passenger stress due to overbooking and the pilot's decision-making during the departure. While there were concerns regarding fuel quality and potential water contamination within the refueling pump, expert analysis determined that any moisture present was insufficient to render the fuel unfit for flight.
The primary cause of the accident was identified as the closure of the left engine's fuel isolation valve. Evidence indicated that a ground mechanic had performed technical work near the engine under the left wing prior to departure. The investigation concluded that this intervention led to the unintended closing of the supply valve, which caused the engine to stop during the climb.