Incident
During the takeoff roll at Tamanrasset Airport, the right engine failed. The available distance was insufficient to stop the aircraft. After becoming airborne, the crew turned left due to very rough terrain and attempted to return to the airport. While trying to climb over a large rock hill, the aircraft stalled and struck the top of the hill. The airplane crash landed in a rocky area.
Damage
The right engine was sheared off during the impact and came to rest behind the airplane. The left engine separated from the wing, passed through and partly under the fuselage, and ended up behind the right wing.
Crew
The crew consisted of pilot Jim Bennett, pilot Dave Fenwick, and electronics operator Mike O'Connor. All three crew members escaped with minor injuries.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause is failure of the right engine at takeoff.
