Accident Details
Shortly after takeoff from Sulaymaniyah Airport runway 31, the aircraft stalled during initial climb and crashed approximately 2,100 meters from the airport. The crash and subsequent post-crash fire totally destroyed the aircraft. All seven occupants were killed, including four employees of Iraqi communications company Asiacell.
Weather
At the time of the accident, weather conditions included visibility of 1,500 meters in snowfall and an overcast ceiling at 3,500 feet.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the following findings were identified: the wings, elevator, and horizontal stabilizer top surface were contaminated with ice and snow; the crew was in a hurry due to early passenger arrival; the crew did not remove the contamination from the control surfaces nor request de-icing; ice and snow contamination on the tail section most likely caused sluggish rotation during takeoff, resulting in over rotation and wing stall; snow and ice contamination on the wing, fuselage, and tail compromised normal takeoff characteristics; a combination of snow and ice caused disruptive airflow, heavier actual weights, and over rotation, which most likely prevented the stall warning safety design from activating. The aircraft could stall asymmetrically without warning during takeoff. These findings were stated as the probable cause of the accident.