What happened
While performing the takeoff roll at Rio de Janeiro-Santos Dumont Airport, the flight crew encountered a simultaneous loss of power across both engines. This malfunction occurred approximately 8 knots prior to reaching V1 speed, with turbine temperatures recorded at their maximum limits. In response to the engine failure, the captain initiated an aborted takeoff procedure and engaged the braking system.
Despite these efforts, the aircraft did not decelerate as intended. The crew subsequently deployed emergency brakes, though these only successfully applied to the right main landing gear. As the aircraft approached the runway threshold, the pilot retracted the undercarriage. Consequently, the plane impacted the ground on its belly and slid off the airfield into Guanabara Bay. The vessel remained afloat for roughly 10 minutes before sinking into the water. The accident resulted in 8 fatalities and left 57 injuries, with several passengers sustaining serious harm.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a simultaneous loss of power in both engines during the takeoff roll.
- Ineffective braking on the left main gear prevented the aircraft from stopping within the runway limits.