Incident Summary
A commercial flight experienced a runway overrun at Freetown's airport after the captain decided to abort the takeoff. The aircraft had been delayed for hours due to poor weather conditions before being cleared for departure from runway 12/30, which measures 3,200 meters in length.
Takeoff and Abort
During the takeoff roll, the captain made the decision to abort the takeoff. The reason for the abort remains unknown. Unable to stop within the remaining runway distance, the aircraft overran the end of the runway. It subsequently lost its right main landing gear and right engine, before coming to rest in a grassy area approximately 100 meters past the runway end.
Rescue and Injuries
All 127 occupants were successfully rescued from the aircraft. Among them, 50 passengers sustained injuries. The aircraft itself was damaged beyond repair.
Probable Cause
According to official findings, the accident was the consequence of the non-application by the crew of the checklist prior to takeoff and the lack of coordination between the copilot, who was the pilot flying, and the captain.
