11 fatalities

Engine Failure and Crew Coordination Issues Cited in Crash Near Prague (OK-MCJ)

Prague-Ruzyne, Czech RepublicTakeoff (climb)

On October 11, 1968, an Avia 14 (registration OK-MCJ) operated by CSA Czech Airlines - Československé Státní Aerolinie was involved in an aviation accident near Prague-Ruzyne, Czech Republic during takeoff. 11 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure for undetermined reason; inappropriate crew coordination and reaction to an emergency situation was considered as a contributing factor. 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)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff from Prague-Ruzyne Airport, an aircraft suffered an engine failure during climb, lost control, and crashed 7 km southwest. Eleven occupants were killed and 29 injured. Investigation cited undetermined engine failure and inappropriate crew coordination.

Accident Overview

Shortly after departing from Prague-Ruzyne Airport, an aircraft encountered an engine failure while climbing. The airplane went out of control and crashed in an open field approximately 7 kilometers southwest of the airport. The flight was en route from Prague to Košice with an intermediate stop in Piešťany. Three crew members and eight passengers were killed, and 29 other occupants sustained injuries.

Investigation Findings

Official investigation into the accident determined that the engine failure occurred for an undetermined reason. Additionally, the investigation reported that the crew's coordination and reaction to the emergency situation were inappropriate, which was considered a contributing factor to the loss of control and subsequent crash.

Probable Cause

The probable cause of the accident was an engine failure for an undetermined reason, with inappropriate crew coordination and reaction to the emergency situation cited as a contributing factor.