Incident Overview
Shortly after takeoff from Jeddah-King Abdulaziz Airport, the flight crew reported technical problems and received clearance to return for an emergency landing. During the final approach, the copilot extended the flaps to an angle of 17°, and the landing was properly completed on runway 33L.
Sequence of Events
After touchdown, the airplane veered off the runway to the left. While contacting rocky ground, the nose gear collapsed, and the aircraft came to rest. All 15 occupants evacuated safely, but the airplane sustained damage beyond repair.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, a technical problem occurred on an engine after a number 1 cylinder exhaust valve held in the open position. The crew was unaware of the hydraulic system failure, which was considered a contributing factor.
