No fatalities

Engine Failure During Approach Results in Gearless Landing (L4901)

Massawa, EritreaLanding (descent or approach)

On December 12, 1941, a Bristol 142 Blenheim (registration L4901) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Massawa, Eritrea during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during the approach phase. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-08-26Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an engine malfunction while on final approach, leading to a crash landing where the undercarriage was lost. The incident resulted in no injuries or fatalities.

What happened

The flight was in the approach phase when the aircraft encountered a mechanical issue. Specifically, the engine failed during this critical stage of the flight. Due to the loss of power, the crew executed an emergency landing procedure. Upon impact with the ground, the aircraft sustained significant structural damage, resulting in the complete loss of its undercarriage. The plane eventually came to a stop after the crash landing. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported among the occupants.

Findings

The official investigation identified the root cause of the incident. The primary factor contributing to the accident was the engine failure that occurred while the aircraft was on approach.

Probable cause

Engine failure during the approach phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Dec 1941 Bristol 142 Blenheim accident near Massawa, Eritrea?

An aircraft experienced an engine malfunction while on final approach, leading to a crash landing where the undercarriage was lost. The incident resulted in no injuries or fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 Dec 1941 Bristol 142 Blenheim accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Dec 1941 involved a Bristol 142 Blenheim, registration L4901, operated by Royal Air Force - RAF, at Massawa, Eritrea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure during the approach phase.