Incident Overview
During a flight segment connecting Lomé and Libreville, the aircraft experienced a critical mechanical failure involving its engine. This event necessitated an immediate emergency response from the pilot, who was compelled to attempt a landing at Rio Benito.
Outcome and Damage Assessment
The emergency maneuver resulted in a crash landing. Post-incident assessments confirmed that the airframe sustained damage beyond repair, leading to its total loss. Fortunately, the pilot remained unhurt during the event.
Ownership Details
Records indicate that the aircraft involved was owned by Urs Dätwyler, a Swiss national.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation concluded that the root cause of the engine failure was fuel exhaustion. This determination highlights the critical importance of fuel management protocols during long-haul or multi-leg flights to prevent such hazardous situations.