Belly landing and post-crash fire at Hyderabad-Begumpet Airport

4 fatalities • Hyderabad-Begumpet, India • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced severe vibrations during its initial climb from Hyderabad-Begumpet Airport, resulting in a belly landing, a post-crash fire, and four fatalities.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following takeoff from runway 09 at Hyderabad-Begumpet Airport, the pilot encountered intense vibrations. This instability was caused by the failure to properly deploy the aircraft's leading edges. Once the landing gear had been retracted, the captain elected to perform an emergency return to the airport.

During the aborted takeoff attempt, the aircraft type (unspecified) performed a belly landing on the runway. The plane slid approximately 940 meters along the surface before overrunning the runway and colliding with a perimeter fence. Following the impact, the aircraft came to a stop in a nearby grassy area where a post-crash fire erupted, resulting in the total destruction of the airframe.

Regarding the casualties, 31 passengers sustained injuries during the incident, while 100 other occupants managed to escape without harm. Tragically, the accident resulted in four deaths: one individual on board the aircraft and three people who were performing grass-cutting duties near the boundary fence at the time of the collision.

Findings

Investigation into the incident identified that the primary issue was the incorrect deployment of the leading edges. The resulting severe vibrations prompted the crew's decision to abort the flight and attempt an emergency landing.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by severe vibrations during takeoff due to the improper deployment of the aircraft's leading edges.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-12-17 Boeing 737-200 accident near Hyderabad-Begumpet, India?

An aircraft experienced severe vibrations during its initial climb from Hyderabad-Begumpet Airport, resulting in a belly landing, a post-crash fire, and four fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-12-17 Boeing 737-200 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-12-17 involved a Boeing 737-200, registration VT-EAL, operated by Indian Airlines, at Hyderabad-Begumpet, India.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by severe vibrations during takeoff due to the improper deployment of the aircraft's leading edges.

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