4 fatalities

Aircraft Crash Shortly After Takeoff from Miandrivazo Airport (F-BALE)

Miandrivazo, MadagascarTakeoff (climb)

On April 10, 1953, an Amiot AAC.1 Toucan (registration F-BALE) operated by Air France was involved in an aviation accident near Miandrivazo, Madagascar during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control caused by a dual engine failure during initial climb. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A three-engine aircraft crashed into a field about 500 meters from Miandrivazo Airport after takeoff, resulting in four fatalities and eleven injuries. The aircraft was carrying tobacco to Antananarivo.

Accident Details

A three-engine aircraft crashed shortly after taking off from Miandrivazo Airport. The aircraft nosed down and impacted a field located approximately 500 meters from the runway.

Occupants and Injuries

All three crew members and one passenger were killed in the accident. Eleven other occupants sustained injuries.

Crew Information

The crew consisted of pilot Henri Dedieu, radio operator Mr. Aubert, and mechanic Mr. Cattelin.

Cargo and Destination

The aircraft was transporting a load of tobacco to Antananarivo.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be loss of control caused by a dual engine failure during initial climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Apr 1953 Amiot AAC.1 Toucan accident near Miandrivazo, Madagascar?

A three-engine aircraft crashed into a field about 500 meters from Miandrivazo Airport after takeoff, resulting in four fatalities and eleven injuries. The aircraft was carrying tobacco to Antananarivo.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 Apr 1953 Amiot AAC.1 Toucan accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Apr 1953 involved an Amiot AAC.1 Toucan, registration F-BALE, operated by Air France, at Miandrivazo, Madagascar.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Loss of control caused by a dual engine failure during initial climb.