Accident Summary
The crew received clearance for takeoff from runway 15L and began the takeoff procedure. After traveling approximately 1,000 meters, the aircraft lifted off prematurely. It then banked to the left, causing the left wing to strike the ground. Having lost control, the aircraft landed back onto the runway and subsequently veered off the runway to the left.
Upon contacting soft ground, all landing gear were torn off, along with all four engines. The aircraft slid for about 800 meters before coming to rest.
Damage and Injuries
All 140 occupants were evacuated from the aircraft. Three of them sustained injuries. The aircraft was written off due to the extensive damage.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the left elevator geared tab drive arm assemblies and the elevator gust lock crank assembly failed during the takeoff roll, causing the aircraft to liftoff prematurely and to be uncontrollable.