What happened
On 2 July 2014, a Fokker F50 aircraft, registration 5Y-CET, crashed during the initial climb phase following a takeoff from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya. The flight, operated by Skyward International, was an international cargo mission destined for Mogadisch, Somalia. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was operating under instrument meteorological conditions.
During the takeoff roll, flight recorder data indicates that both engines were set to high power. Shortly after acceleration, the crew experienced a series of audio alerts. Flight data revealed that engine 1 experienced a significant surge, with torque climbing to its maximum measurable value of 119.9% while the propeller speed dropped from 100% to 57%. The crew discussed whether to abort the takeoff or continue, eventually deciding to proceed with the rotation.
After the aircraft transitioned from the ground to flight mode, the crew noted a lack of power on one side. Shortly after liftoff, the aircraft's Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) issued multiple "don't sink" aural alerts. The aircraft reached a peak altitude of approximately 5,060 feet before descending. The pilot attempted to communicate with air traffic control, stating that the aircraft had no power, before the recording ended amidst sounds of distress. The aircraft crashed at coordinates 01° 17’16”S, 36° 57’5”E, and the four fatalities were the result of the impact and subsequent fire that destroyed the airframe.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a severe power loss on one engine characterized by a massive torque spike and a simultaneous drop in propeller speed.
- The crew attempted to manage the emergency by continuing the takeoff despite the engine malfunction.