Incident Overview
The accident occurred during nighttime operations when an aircraft departed Nairobi-Wilson Airport using runway 07. During the initial climb phase, the pilot identified engine issues and declared an emergency. Air traffic control subsequently cleared the flight to divert to the nearest facility, Nairobi-Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Crash Sequence
While on final approach to runway 06 at the destination airport, the pilot attempted a maneuver to avoid a collision with overhead power cables. During this avoidance action, control of the aircraft was lost. The airframe rolled to the left and impacted the ground in an agricultural field located 4.5 kilometers short of the runway threshold. Both individuals on board were killed in the crash.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage provided critical insights into the mechanical condition of the aircraft prior to impact. Investigators determined that the right propeller had been feathered before the collision. Additionally, it was discovered that the beta block for the right propeller was likely missing prior to the accident. This absence would have permitted the reversing lever to move freely without restriction.
Further inspection revealed that other components within the reverser system for the right propeller exhibited severe wear. However, the official accident report did not include a detailed discussion of the reverser system's functionality or draw conclusions regarding the significance of the observed damage in relation to the loss of control.