Accident Overview
On a night takeoff from runway 25 at Rome-Fiumicino-Leonardo da Vinci Airport, a cargo aircraft experienced difficulties climbing after departure. The flight was en route from Rome to Addis Ababa, with an intermediate stop planned in Asmara. At a height of approximately 7–8 meters, the airplane struck tree tops, subsequently stalled, and crashed in flames. The wreckage came to rest in a wooded area located 280 meters past the end of the runway.
Damage and Occupants
The aircraft was totally destroyed by impact forces and a post-crash fire. All five occupants—three crew members and two security agents—were killed.
Probable Cause
The official investigation stated that it is possible that the accident may be the consequence of a mistake in the mass and balance calculation.