On February 9, 2017, a Casa 212 Aviocar (registration OC2) operated by Botswana Defence Force - Air Wing was involved in an aviation accident near Thebephatshwa AFB, Botswana during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft went out of control during the initial climb following takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A twin-engine aircraft crashed shortly after departing Thebephatshwa Air Force Base, resulting in the deaths of all three crew members.
What happened
During a flight departing from Thebephatshwa Air Force Base, a twin engine aircraft experienced a loss of control. The flight was originally intended to proceed to Gaborone. Shortly after the initial takeoff phase, the aircraft deviated from its flight path and impacted the ground approximately 4 km away from the airfield.
There were three fatalities recorded in the accident, as all members of the crew perished in the crash. No other injuries were reported.
Findings
Information regarding the specific mechanical or operational reasons for the loss of control was not provided in the initial report.
Probable cause
The aircraft went out of control during the initial climb following takeoff.