Sequence of Events
On approach to Luxembourg-Findel Airport after an uneventful flight from Moscow-Shermetyevo Airport, the crew completed a landing on runway 06. As the aircraft passed over the threshold at a height of 5 meters and a speed of 278 km/h, engine power was reduced to 40% and thrust reversers were activated on engine numbers 1 and 4. For reasons that remain unknown, the thrust reverser on engine number 1 failed to deploy, causing the aircraft to bank to the right. Five seconds later, the aircraft touched down at a speed of 265 km/h. After touchdown, the spoilers were activated and engine power on engines 1 and 4 was increased to 86% and 80%, respectively. The aircraft veered off the runway to the right, rolled for 1,300 meters, and then struck a water tower. It came to rest 900 meters further and burst into flames.
Injuries and Damage
Of the occupants on board, 38 were injured and 32 were unhurt. Seven passengers were killed in the accident. The aircraft was destroyed by impact and fire.
Investigation
The official investigation determined that the accident may be attributed to a mechanical failure affecting the mechanism of controlling thrust, which occurred during the most critical phase of landing. This failure, described as sudden and unpredictable, was identified by the crew and made the aircraft uncontrollable in direction during the execution of the normal landing procedure.