Aircraft shot down over Botswana during delivery flight

2 fatalities • Botswana, Botswana • Flight

A twin-engine aircraft on a delivery mission from the UK to Botswana was destroyed by military fire while flying over the country's northeast region.

What happened

A delivery flight traveling from the United Kingdom to Botswana ended in a fatal crash while traversing the northeastern territory of Botswana. The twin engine airplane was operating as a transport mission to relocate the aircraft to its new destination.

During the transit, the aircraft was targeted and struck by gunfire from an Alouette III helicopter operated by the Rhodesian Army. This engagement resulted in the immediate destruction of the plane. There were two fatalities recorded, as both occupants on board the aircraft perished during the incident.

Findings

The investigation concluded that the primary reason for the loss of the aircraft was that it was shot down by an Alouette III helicopter belonging to the Rhodesian Army.

Probable cause

The aircraft was destroyed by ground-to-air fire from a Rhodesian Army Alouette III helicopter.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1979-08-09 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Botswana, Botswana?

A twin-engine aircraft on a delivery mission from the UK to Botswana was destroyed by military fire while flying over the country's northeast region.

Were there any fatalities in the 1979-08-09 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1979-08-09 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration OA-2, operated by Botswana Defence Force - Air Wing, at Botswana, Botswana.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was destroyed by ground-to-air fire from a Rhodesian Army Alouette III helicopter.

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