What happened
During a mission at Serang-Gorda AFB, an aircraft was tasked with conducting a Low Altitude Parachute Extraction System (LAPES) test. The flight was manned by a crew of six members. As the aircraft descended to an altitude of approximately 200 metres, the crew attempted to release a 4-ton payload.
During this procedure, the parachute harness became detached from its intended connection. This malfunction caused the heavy load to become lodged against the cargo door. This obstruction resulted in the pilot losing control of the aircraft, which subsequently crashed. The accident resulted in six fatalities.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was the detachment of the parachute harness during the extraction process.
- The resulting blockage of the cargo door prevented the successful release of the payload and destabilized the flight path.