Incident Overview
The aircraft was operating a charter flight, carrying personnel and support equipment for the Paris–Dakar Rally. Shortly after takeoff, during the initial climb, the left engine failed and its propeller was feathered. The crew elected to return to the airport for an emergency landing.
Flight and Engine Failure
As the aircraft climbed, the left engine lost power. The crew responded by feathering the propeller to reduce drag. They initiated a return to the departure airfield, preparing for an immediate landing.
Emergency Landing
On final approach, as the aircraft descended, the undercarriage was lowered at a height of approximately 30–40 feet. Immediately afterward, the aircraft became unstable. It touched down to the right of the runway and came to rest in a grassy area adjacent to the runway.
Fire and Evacuation
The hot engines ignited the dry grass, and a fire quickly engulfed the aircraft. The aircraft was subsequently destroyed by fire. All 17 occupants evacuated without injury.
Aftermath
Photographs of the incident were taken by Gilbert Mauroo and published on the website vieillestiges.be.