What happened
On a scheduled training mission operated by the Escadron de Transport 2/63 Bigorre, an aircraft departed from Pau-Uzekin Airport carrying a total of 34 people, including nine crew members and 25 paratroopers. Shortly after the departure, the pilot notified air traffic control regarding an active fire in one of the engines. In response to this emergency, the flight was authorized to perform an immediate return to the airfield.
During the final approach phase of the flight, the aircraft's nose pitched downward, leading to a crash several kilometers before reaching the runway. The impact was followed by a massive explosion. The accident resulted in 32 fatalities and left two passengers with injuries.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified an engine fire as the primary factor preceding the loss of control, though the specific origin of the fire remained undetermined.