Fatal aircraft accident near Bata Airport

22 fatalities • Bata, Equatorial Guinea • Takeoff (climb)

A flight departing from Bata Airport crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff, resulting in the loss of all 22 people on board.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Bata Airport, the crew of the aircraft declared an emergency and attempted to perform a return to the airfield. Air traffic control indicated that a runway landing was obstructed by another aircraft present on the strip at the time.

While attempting the return maneuver, the flight crew lost control of the aircraft type (unspecified model). The plane subsequently crashed into the ocean a few hundred meters away from the coast. Search efforts located the wreckage in shallow waters. There were 22 fatalities and no survivors among the occupants.

Findings

Preliminary observations indicate that the right engine failed during the initial climb, rendering it non-functional prior to the impact with the water.

Probable cause

The loss of control following an engine failure during the climb phase and the inability to land due to a blocked runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-01-02 Casa 212 Aviocar accident near Bata, Equatorial Guinea?

A flight departing from Bata Airport crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff, resulting in the loss of all 22 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-01-02 Casa 212 Aviocar accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 22 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-01-02 involved a Casa 212 Aviocar, registration T.12B-32, operated by Spanish Air Force - Ejército del Aire, at Bata, Equatorial Guinea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of control following an engine failure during the climb phase and the inability to land due to a blocked runway.

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