What happened
On July 6, 2009, an AN-28, registration ST-TYB, departed Al Fashir carrying food supplies for UNAMID forces. The flight was operated by a crew of two and was initially planned to fly at flight level 085 under VFR conditions before being re-cleared to FL105. The aircraft's takeoff weight was recorded at 6335 kg, with a cargo load of 1511 kg.
As the aircraft approached Sarif-Umra, the pilot began a gradual descent at 250 km/h to inspect the runway surface and wind conditions. Upon reaching an altitude of approximately 60 meters during the final approach, the crew observed a dust devil crossing the runway from the right side. To avoid this weather phenomenon, the crew initiated a go-around procedure by applying full power and executing a right turn.
During the maneuver, the engines failed to provide sufficient response, and the aircraft was caught in wind shear. This caused the plane to lose altitude rapidly. The aircraft struck the ground at 0650 UTC, rolling and striking a rock before impacting the earth on its nose and left main gear. The wreckage came to rest 1,850 meters from the start of runway 05. While the two crew members survived the impact, the aircraft suffered substantial damage.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified that unexpected environmental conditions, specifically wind shear and downdrafts from a convective cell, were the primary factors leading to the loss of altitude during the go-around attempt.