Nighttime Terrain Impact Near Bangui Airport (F-BELB)

Accident Overview A four-engine aircraft impacted the slope of a hill approximately 16 kilometers south of Bangui Airport while climbing at night, four minutes after takeoff. The accident resulted in 46 fatalities and serious injuries to three crew members and seven passengers. ## Official Findings The investigation determined that the crew initiated the takeoff procedure at night without adequate knowledge of the departure procedures and the surrounding topography. The Chief of the Aerodrome had informed the pilot before departure about hills in the area. The pilot continued the initial climb at an insufficient altitude and began the first turn prematurely, leading to the terrain impact. ## Contributory Factors The official findings identified several contributory factors, including the flying crew's lack of familiarity, poor visibility due to nighttime conditions, and an incomplete flight chart for the Bangui area.