The data from the investigation indicate that the takeoff maneuver took place with the flaps and slats retracted, which constituted an improper configuration that did not ensure safety. The inspections of the slat components recovered from the accident site showed evidence consistent with a slat retracted condition. In addition, though an inspection of the flap components did not yield a definitive conclusion regarding their position at the time of the accident, the values recorded on the digital flight data recorder (DFDR) indicate that the flaps remained retracted for the length of the taxi phase to the runway, the takeoff run and throughout the entire accident sequence until the recorder ceased operating following the impact. Furthermore, the laboratory tests conducted on the flap actuating lever recovered from the wreckage revealed the existence of impact marks located in the position corresponding to the flaps/slats retracted (UP/RET), possibly caused by the lever itself.
What more do they want?
