Emergency landing following engine failure at Covilhã Airport

No fatalities • Covilhã, Portugal • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during its initial climb from Covilhã Airport, resulting in an emergency landing in a nearby field.

What happened

During the takeoff phase at Covilhã Airport, an aircraft experienced a mechanical issue shortly after rotation. While performing the initial climb, one of the engines ceased functioning properly. In response to the loss of power, the pilot initiated an emergency procedure to divert the flight from its intended path.

The crew directed the plane toward an open field to perform a controlled crash landing. Upon impact with the ground, the aircraft came to a complete stop. Although the incident resulted in significant damage to the airframe, there were zero fatalities and all individuals on board were evacuated from the wreckage without injury.

Findings

Investigations into the incident suggest that the loss of engine power was triggered by an external factor. The primary cause of the engine failure is attributed to a bird strike occurring just after the aircraft left the runway.

Probable cause

The engine failure was caused by a bird strike during the initial climb phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1976-07-28 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Covilhã, Portugal?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during its initial climb from Covilhã Airport, resulting in an emergency landing in a nearby field.

Were there any fatalities in the 1976-07-28 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1976-07-28 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration CS-AJQ, operated by Transportes Aéreos Continentais, at Covilhã, Portugal.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failure was caused by a bird strike during the initial climb phase.

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