What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from Menongue Airport, the aircraft was struck by a surface-to-air missile. The impact specifically damaged the number four engine. In response to the strike, the crew received clearance to perform an immediate return to the airfield. However, the situation escalated as the right wing ignited, and both the number three and number four engines ceased functioning.
As the flight proceeded toward the runway, the crew executed an unstabilized approach. Although the aircraft successfully touched down, the loss of the hydraulic systems prevented the crew from effectively braking the plane. Consequently, the aircraft failed to stop within the available runway length, resulting in a runway overrun. During the excursion, the undercarriage was lost, and the plane eventually came to a halt several dozen meters beyond the runway end. The incident resulted in zero fatalities, though all seven occupants sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was destroyed during the event.
Findings
- The primary cause of the engine failure was a surface-to-air missile strike hitting the number four engine.
- The loss of hydraulic functionality prevented the application of necessary braking force during the landing roll.
- The aircraft suffered significant structural damage, including the loss of its landing gear, leading to the total destruction of the airframe.