What happened
During the departure from Lagos International Airport, the crew of Flight 361 initiated the take-off roll on runway one eight left under calm weather conditions. Shortly after advancing engine power, the onboard computer issued a configuration warning regarding the flaps. While the specific flap setting was under investigation, there was evidence suggesting the crew may have opted to take off without them. The Captain acted as the pilot flying, while the First Officer served as the pilot monitoring.
As the take-off roll progressed, the aircraft's automated voice system issued warnings for both the flaps and the auto-feather function. Data indicated that the right engine was producing significantly less thrust than the left engine. Physical examination of the wreckage later showed the right engine propeller was in the feathered position and the engine fire handle had been activated.
At approximately 95 knots, the First Officer inquired about aborting the take-off, but the Captain elected to continue. The crew did not perform the standard V1 or Vr callouts. During the rotation phase, the First Officer instructed the Captain to rotate the aircraft "gently" to avoid a stall. Following lift-off, the aircraft failed to climb effectively and drifted rightward off the runway, prompting an inquiry from Air Traffic Control that went unanswered.
Less than ten seconds after rotation, a stall warning activated in the cockpit. The flight data recorded characteristics consistent with an aerodynamic stall, and approximately 31 seconds after the warning began, the aircraft impacted the ground in a near 90-degree right bank in a nose-down attitude.
Findings
- The right engine was producing much lower thrust than the left engine.
- The right engine propeller was found in the feathered position.
- The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall during the initial climb phase.