3 fatalities

Fatal aircraft accident at Lusaka Airport (AF-601)

Lusaka, ZambiaTakeoff (climb)

On August 26, 1969, an Avro 748 (registration AF-601) operated by Zambia Air Force was involved in an aviation accident near Lusaka, Zambia during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft lost control during the initial climb phase shortly after takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed during its initial climb from Lusaka Airport, resulting in three fatalities and one survivor.

What happened

During an ascent from Lusaka Airport, an aircraft experienced a loss of control shortly after departing the runway. While the plane was attempting to reach an altitude of 150 feet, it became unstable and impacted the ground.

There were four people on board at the time of the accident. The impact resulted in three fatalities, leaving only one crew member to survive the crash.

Findings

The investigation into the sequence of events indicates that the loss of control occurred during the early climb phase, specifically while the aircraft was still at a very low altitude.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost control during the initial climb phase shortly after takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Aug 1969 Avro 748 accident near Lusaka, Zambia?

An aircraft crashed during its initial climb from Lusaka Airport, resulting in three fatalities and one survivor.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Aug 1969 Avro 748 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Aug 1969 involved an Avro 748, registration AF-601, operated by Zambia Air Force, at Lusaka, Zambia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost control during the initial climb phase shortly after takeoff.