No fatalities

1980-04-03: Boeing 707 (S2-ABQ) — Biman Bangladesh Airlines — Paya Lebar AFB, Singapore

Paya Lebar AFB, SingaporeTakeoff (climb)

On April 3, 1980, a Boeing 707 (registration S2-ABQ) operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Paya Lebar AFB, Singapore during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781224088Data APIEditorial standards
Boeing 707
Photo: USAF / Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

After takeoff from Singapore-Paya Lebar Airport, an aircraft lost power in all four engines during initial climb, leading to an aborted takeoff and belly landing. All 78 occupants evacuated safely; the aircraft was destroyed.

Incident Overview

Shortly after departing from Singapore-Paya Lebar Airport, the flight crew retracted the landing gear and initiated a climb. At approximately 100 feet above ground level, the captain decided to abort the takeoff and executed a landing back on the runway. The aircraft touched down on its belly, sliding for about 2,000 feet before veering to the right and coming to a stop.

Occupants and Aircraft Damage

All 78 individuals on board were evacuated without injury. The aircraft, however, sustained damage beyond repair, rendering it a total loss.

Engine Power Loss

It is believed that all four engines lost power during the initial climb. The reason for this power loss remains unknown.

Investigation Status

The exact cause of the accident remains undetermined. Investigations into the event are ongoing.

Subsequent Event

One day after the accident, the flight engineer died by suicide, jumping from a hotel window. The authorities of Singapore reported this occurrence.