What happened
A charter flight departed Hassi R'Mel-Tilrhempt Airport at 20:30 local time, destined for Ghardaïa. The flight was transporting three crew members and two employees of Sonatrach. While the aircraft was performing a right-hand circuit for an approach to runway 30, a Boeing 727 was also on long finals for the same runway.
During the approach, a disagreement occurred regarding the landing method. While the co-pilot intended to perform an NDB/ILS approach, the captain opted for a visual approach. Following the captain's instructions, the co-pilot executed the descent and course changes with visible hesitation. At 20:57, the Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) triggered an alarm. In response, the crew increased power and attempted to climb from an altitude of 240 feet.
The captain then assumed control of the aircraft. In an attempt to steer the plane toward the runway, the captain executed a sharp left roll to -57 degrees and a nose-down pitch of -18.9 degrees. Despite a second EGPWS alert, the descent continued, leading to a ground impact and the destruction of the aircraft. The accident resulted in five injuries and the eventual death of the co-pilot one day after the event.
Findings
- The crew attempted a visual approach despite the presence of another aircraft on final approach.
- The captain's aggressive maneuvering to intercept the runway caused the aircraft to descend into the ground.