What happened
The incident occurred during the initial climb phase immediately after departure from Hastings Airport in Freetown. The aircraft encountered a critical mechanical issue shortly after liftoff when the landing gear was retracted earlier than intended for the flight profile. This premature action of the undercarriage led to a loss of control or structural failure, causing the airplane to crash into the terrain near the airfield.
The accident resulted in significant loss of life and injury among the personnel on board. Four crew members were killed in the impact, while a fifth individual sustained serious injuries. The victims included two pilots, an observer, and two other crew members who were serving in various roles at the time of the crash. All individuals listed in the official records were part of the operational team for this specific flight.
Findings
The official investigation determined that the primary factor leading to the disaster was the early retraction of the landing gear. The undercarriage was raised during the takeoff sequence when it should have remained extended to ensure stability and safety during the initial climb. This procedural or mechanical error directly contributed to the loss of the aircraft and the subsequent fatalities.