Runway excursion and fire involving aircraft at Douala Airport

No fatalities • Douala, Cameroon • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during takeoff at Douala Airport, leading to a runway overrun, structural failure, and subsequent fire.

What happened

While performing a takeoff roll on runway 23 at Doueral Airport, the crew of the aircraft experienced a sudden loud noise at a speed of 110 knots. In response to this event, the crew elected to abort the takeoff. Despite the immediate application of emergency braking, the aircraft could not halt before the end of the runway.

The aircraft subsequently overran the runway, resulting in the separation of the engines and the undercarriage. After traveling an additional 130 metres, the vessel came to a stop and caught fire. All 114 occupants successfully evacuated the aircraft, though 20 individuals sustained minor injuries. The aircraft type was destroyed during the incident.

Findings

  • The crew's decision to abort the takeoff was prompted by a loud bang heard at 110 knots.
  • The aircraft failed to stop within the available runway distance during the emergency braking procedure.

Probable cause

An engine or mechanical failure during the takeoff roll led to an aborted takeoff that could not be completed within the remaining runway length.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-08-03 Boeing 737-200 accident near Douala, Cameroon?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during takeoff at Douala Airport, leading to a runway overrun, structural failure, and subsequent fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 1997-08-03 Boeing 737-200 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-08-03 involved a Boeing 737-200, registration TU-TAV, operated by Air Afrique (1961), at Douala, Cameroon.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An engine or mechanical failure during the takeoff roll led to an aborted takeoff that could not be completed within the remaining runway length.

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