What happened
During the departure phase from Huambo-Albano Machado Airport, an explosion took place in the rear section of the cabin. Following this event, the pilot issued an emergency declaration and received clearance to perform an immediate return to the airfield.
As the aircraft attempted to land, a partial failure within the hydraulic system prevented the crew from deploying the flaps. This mechanical issue resulted in a high-speed touchdown on the runway. Upon contacting the ground, the aircraft could not decelerate sufficiently within the available runway length. The plane subsequently overran the pavement, causing the loss of both engines and the undercarriage before coming to a halt 180 meters beyond the runway end.
All 142 occupants were successfully evacuated from the wreckage. While there were no fatalities, the incident resulted in 15 injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed during the excursion.
Findings
Investigations concluded that the primary cause of the emergency was an explosion located in the rear of the cabin. It was determined that a bomb had been placed on the aircraft by UNITA rebels.