Fatal aircraft accident during night approach to Douala Airport

71 fatalities • Douala, Cameroon • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a mangrove forest during a night approach to Douala Airport, resulting in 71 fatalities and several serious injuries.

What happened

During a night approach to Douala Airport, an aircraft was cleared to land on runway 30 while approximately 3.5 nautical miles from the destination. Shortly after receiving clearance, the aircraft began a minor climb. Roughly 15 seconds into this maneuver, the co-pilot notified air traffic control of technical difficulties.

Within three seconds of this communication, the aircraft experienced a left roll and descended into a mangrove area situated roughly 1,700 meters south of runway 30. The impact caused the aircraft to burst into flames. The accident resulted in 71 fatalities and left three passengers and two crew members with serious injuries.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced a sudden roll to the left following the report of technical issues.
  • The crash occurred during the approach phase of flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced a sudden left roll and struck trees following the onset of technical problems during the final approach.

Related events

Same aircraft

Same operator

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-12-03 Boeing 737-200 accident near Douala, Cameroon?

An aircraft crashed into a mangrove forest during a night approach to Douala Airport, resulting in 71 fatalities and several serious injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1995-12-03 Boeing 737-200 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 71 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-12-03 involved a Boeing 737-200, registration TJ-CBE, operated by Cameroon Airlines, at Douala, Cameroon.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced a sudden left roll and struck trees following the onset of technical problems during the final approach.

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