What happened
During the takeoff roll on runway 15L, the flight crew initiated the departure procedure. Approximately 1,000 meters into the takeoff run, the aircraft experienced an unplanned and premature lift-off. Following this unexpected ascent, the plane entered a left bank that caused the left wing to make contact with the ground.
Following the wing strike, the aircraft became uncontrollable and descended back onto the runway surface. The plane then veered toward the left side of the runway, exiting the paved surface and entering soft terrain. As the vehicle moved through the soft ground, the impact caused the separation of all four engines and the entire landing gear assembly. The aircraft continued to slide for roughly 800 meters before finally coming to a stop.
All 140 occupants were successfully evacuated from the wreckage. While there were no fatalities, the accident resulted in 3 injuries. The aircraft was subsequently declared a total loss.
Findings
Investigations determined that the primary reason for the uncontrolled flight was a mechanical failure within the control surfaces. Specifically, the assemblies for the left elevator geared tab drive arm and the elevator gust lock crank failed while the aircraft was still on the runway. This malfunction led to the premature rotation and subsequent loss of directional control during the takeoff phase.