What happened
During the takeoff phase from runway 06, the aircraft departed with the flaps set to zero degrees. This configuration differed from the pilot's standard operating procedure, which typically utilized 20 degrees of flaps for takeoff. Shortly after lifting off, an observer noted that the aircraft exhibited wobbling and shuddering motions before entering a sharp right bank.
The aircraft proceeded into a cloud layer situated between 200 and 400 feet above ground level. Radar tracking recorded the aircraft performing multiple 90-degree turns while in flight. The flight ended when the aircraft struck mountainous terrain located 2.55 nautical miles from the end of the departure runway. There were no reported survivors from the crash.
Findings
Investigations into the wreckage revealed that the upper cabin entry door, including its locking pins and handle, was found in the closed position. No mechanical issues related to the engine or the airframe were detected that would have compromised the performance of the aircraft prior to the impact.
Expert analysis indicated that the aircraft's handling characteristics during takeoff are significantly altered when using zero degrees of flaps compared to the standard 20-degree setting. The use of zero degrees of flaps during takeoff is considered a primary factor in the flight's unstable behavior.