No fatalities

Right Main Gear Collapse on Landing at Nairobi-Jomo Kenyatta Airport (G-BCWJ)

Nairobi-Jomo Kenyatta (ex Embakasi), KenyaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 6, 1978, a Canadair CL-44 (registration G-BCWJ) operated by Tradewinds Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Nairobi-Jomo Kenyatta (ex Embakasi), Kenya during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff from Mombasa, a cargo aircraft experienced a right main gear malfunction. The crew diverted to Nairobi; upon landing, the gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to slide on its belly. All four crew evacuated safely; aircraft damaged beyond repair.

Incident

A cargo aircraft departing Mombasa-Moi Airport experienced a technical issue shortly after takeoff. The crew reported that the right main landing gear would not lock into position. In response, the captain made the decision to divert to Nairobi-Jomo Kenyatta Airport to perform an emergency landing.

Landing and Gear Collapse

Upon touchdown at Nairobi-Jomo Kenyatta Airport, the right main gear collapsed. The aircraft then slid on its belly, eventually coming to rest on the runway. All four crew members on board were evacuated safely from the aircraft following the incident.

Aircraft Damage and Cargo

The aircraft sustained substantial damage and was deemed beyond economical repair. It was carrying a cargo of 17 tons of cement, destined from Mombasa to Kigali at the time of the event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Jul 1978 Canadair CL-44 accident near Nairobi-Jomo Kenyatta (ex Embakasi), Kenya?

After takeoff from Mombasa, a cargo aircraft experienced a right main gear malfunction. The crew diverted to Nairobi; upon landing, the gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to slide on its belly. All four crew evacuated safely; aircraft damaged beyond repair.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 Jul 1978 Canadair CL-44 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Jul 1978 involved a Canadair CL-44, registration G-BCWJ, operated by Tradewinds Airways, at Nairobi-Jomo Kenyatta (ex Embakasi), Kenya.