Crash of Flight in Cap Haïtien After Night Takeoff (HH-PRV)

Accident Overview

Shortly after a night takeoff from runway 05 at Cap Haïtien Airport, the crew reported technical problems during initial climb. An emergency was declared, and the aircraft was cleared to return. While on base leg, the aircraft lost height and crashed in a sugar cane field located 2 km from the airport, bursting into flames. All 21 occupants were killed. It was later reported that the door of the forward baggage hold opened during takeoff.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the accident was the consequence of a stall during approach while on the downwind leg base due to a loss of VMC at low altitude.

Contributing Factors

The following contributing factors were identified:

• Failure of the crew to manage the approach procedure (poor CRM)
• Use of maximum flaps (42°)
• Insufficient altitude
• Lack of coordination between crew members
• A possible state of fatigue of the captain
• A possible overweight aircraft
• The opening of the forward baggage hold door during takeoff