What happened
While performing the takeoff sequence, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure involving the accidental discharge of a napalm tank. The release of this payload resulted in significant damage to one of the aircraft's flaps. Following this impact, the pilot lost control of the vehicle, leading to a crash at the departure site.
Upon impact, a post-crash fire ignited, which ultimately led to the total destruction of the airframe. Despite the severity of the accident and the resulting flames, there were no fatalities reported among those on board.
Findings
- The primary factor in the loss of control was the damage to a flap caused by the unintended release of a napalm tank during the takeoff phase.