Accident Details
The aircraft departed from runway 27 of Mumbai Airport at 2216 UTC on July 2, 1997 (0346 IST on July 3, 1997). Shortly after takeoff, the pilot contacted the tower, reporting a turn and entering weather conditions. The tower acknowledged and directed the aircraft to contact radar control.
Communications
The pilot then established contact with radar, which instructed the aircraft to intercept radial 146, report passing flight level 080, and climb to level 170. The pilot acknowledged, replying with a call sign and confirming the instructions. This was the last transmission from the aircraft.
Aftermath
The aircraft crashed into the Arabian Sea off the Mumbai coast at approximately 2219 UTC. It was destroyed upon impact with the water, and both occupants on board died. No evidence of fire was found.
Probable Cause
The official investigation stated: "The pilot possibly lost control when encountered severe weather conditions soon after take off and crashed into the sea. Non-availability of latest weather to the pilot was the contributory factor."