Accident Overview
The aircraft departed Lusaka on a charter flight to Dakar, with intermediate stops in Brazzaville, Libreville, and Abidjan. It was carrying all staff of the National Zambian Football Team, who were flying to Dakar to play against Senegal for the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States.
One minute after a night takeoff from Libreville-Léon Mba Airport, while climbing, the left engine failed. In a certain confusion, the captain mistakenly shut down the right engine. The aircraft lost height and crashed into the sea about 500 metres offshore. The aircraft sank, and all 30 occupants were killed.
Aircraft History and Maintenance
It was reported that the aircraft had not been operated between December 21, 1992, and April 21, 1993. It was eventually requisitioned by the Zambian Government to carry the National Football Team to Senegal. A maintenance control (check A & B) was conducted between April 22 and 26, the day prior to departure.
Official Findings
It was determined that the left engine failed due to excessive carbon deposit. Additionally, oil filters were clogged, and electrical cables showed signs of overheating. The engine failed during initial climb due to inadequate maintenance. It was also reported that the captain was tired at the time of the accident due to an intense schedule the preceding days following a tour in Mauritius with insufficient rest time. Poor crew coordination, fatigue, and lack of concentration were considered as contributing factors.