Incident Overview
A cargo flight from Paris-Orly Airport concluded with a serious incident during the approach to Douala Airport. The aircraft, operating in marginal weather conditions, began its descent uneventfully. However, during the final phase of the approach, the crew encountered low-level windshear.
Sequence of Events
On short final, the aircraft entered a low-level windshear condition. The crew lost control, and the airplane banked sharply to the left. The left wing contacted the runway surface. The impact caused the left main landing gear to separate from the aircraft, and both engines (number 1 and 2) were also torn off. Subsequently, the aircraft veered off the left side of the runway, executed a 270-degree turn, and came to a stop.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained substantial damage. The left wing was partially torn off, rendering the airplane beyond repair. All three crew members evacuated and escaped with minor injuries.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause was a loss of control on short final due to windshear.