What happened
Shortly after departing from Runway 23 at Medan-Soewondo AFB Airport, the aircraft experienced a significant loss of altitude during its initial climb. Despite favorable weather conditions, the crew communicated that they were experiencing technical difficulties. During the ascent, the aircraft tilted to the right and struck a utility pole and the roof of a structure. The impact caused the aircraft to crash in an inverted position, triggering a massive explosion in a residential area located within 5 km of the airfield.
The resulting fire and impact forces completely destroyed the aircraft and several nearby buildings. The accident resulted in 139 fatalities, comprising all 122 occupants on board and 17 individuals on the ground. Additionally, 20 people sustained injuries during the event.
Findings
Preliminary assessments suggest that the primary factor in the loss of control was an engine failure occurring during the early stages of the climb.