What happened
While performing the takeoff roll, the aircraft's nose landing gear failed and collapsed. This mechanical failure caused the front of the plane to drop toward the runway surface. As a result of the collapse, the aircraft slid several meters along the ground before the motion ceased.
Despite the impact with the ground, all 39 occupants were able to exit the aircraft without harm. The incident resulted in the aircraft being declared a total loss due to damage that was beyond repair.
Findings
- The primary factor in the incident was the collapse of the nose gear during the initial phase of takeoff.