Incident Details
Shortly after takeoff, while climbing to an altitude of 300 feet, the flight crew informed air traffic control that the number one engine had exploded. The crew received permission to return for a safe landing. After completing a circuit, the captain realized that reaching the airport was not possible and decided to attempt an emergency landing in a paddy field. The aircraft performed a belly landing and slid for a dozen yards before coming to rest in flames.
Evacuation
All 57 occupants were able to evacuate the cabin before the aircraft was totally destroyed by fire. The evacuation was completed prior to the fire consuming the entire aircraft.
Probable Cause
According to official findings, the probable cause of the incident was the failure and explosion of the number one engine shortly after takeoff.