Accident
After a night takeoff from runway 24 at Shannon Airport, the aircraft began climbing. Shortly after becoming airborne, it turned to the left and then banked left to an angle of 90 degrees. The aircraft subsequently crashed inverted in the Shannon estuary, approximately two miles from the airfield. The aircraft was totally destroyed, and all 83 occupants on board were killed. At the time of the accident, visibility was poor due to the night conditions and mist.
Investigation
The official investigation into the accident determined the probable cause and contributory factors. The findings are based on the evidence available at the time.
Probable Cause
The failure of the captain to maintain control of the aircraft after becoming airborne, due to either or both of the following:
- A defective artificial horizon
- A fault in the right-hand aileron tabs
Contributory causes could have been unsuitable weather conditions and possible crew fatigue.