What happened
During a ferry flight conducted under FAR Part 91 regulations, an aircraft crashed immediately following liftoff while attempting a three-engine takeoff. During the initial takeoff roll, the captain applied power to an asymmetrical engine prematurely, which led to a loss of directional control and a subsequent rejected takeoff. In an attempt to modify the procedure for the second attempt, the captain deviated from established protocols by allowing the flight engineer to advance the throttle. This second attempt resulted in the crash and the deaths of all three crew members.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified several contributing factors related to crew performance and regulatory oversight. The flight crew was suffering from significant fatigue due to shortened rest periods and disrupted circadian rhythms, as rest requirements for ferry flights were not mandated under the applicable regulations. Furthermore, the crew lacked sufficient, realistic training regarding the specific techniques required for a three-engine takeoff, including a failure to properly understand the significance of the minimum control speed on the ground (Vmcg).
A critical error was identified in the calculation of the takeoff speeds, as the flight engineer determined a Vmcg value that was 9 knots lower than required. Additionally, the investigation noted that current one-engine inoperative takeoff procedures do not provide enough rudder authority to correct directional deviations while maintaining maximum asymmetric thrust at speeds above the ground minimum control speed. Finally, the inadequate FAA oversight of the operator was cited, as inspectors were unable to effectively monitor the operator's international operations and domestic crew training.