54 fatalities

Aviation Accident: Engine Failure During Initial Climb at Asmara-Yohannes IV Airport

Asmara, EritreaTakeoff (climb)

On January 13, 1987, an Antonov AN-12 operated by Ethiopian Air Force - Ye Ityopya Ayer Hayl was involved in an aviation accident near Asmara, Eritrea during takeoff. 54 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during initial climb for unknown reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed in a large explosion after an engine failed during initial climb from Asmara-Yohannes IV Airport, resulting in the loss of all 54 occupants.

Incident Overview and Immediate Sequence of Events Following takeoff from Asmara-Yohannes IV Airport, the aircraft experienced an engine failure while in the initial climb phase. The flight crew immediately declared an emergency and initiated a circuit to return to the airport. However, the aircraft subsequently lost altitude and crashed, resulting in a large explosion. All 54 occupants on board were killed in the incident. ## Official Investigation Findings The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was an engine failure during the initial climb. The specific reasons for the engine failure were not identified in the official findings.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Jan 1987 Antonov AN-12 accident near Asmara, Eritrea?

An aircraft crashed in a large explosion after an engine failed during initial climb from Asmara-Yohannes IV Airport, resulting in the loss of all 54 occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Jan 1987 Antonov AN-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 54 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jan 1987 involved an Antonov AN-12, operated by Ethiopian Air Force - Ye Ityopya Ayer Hayl, at Asmara, Eritrea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure during initial climb for unknown reasons.