3 fatalities

Aircraft crash near Thebephatshwa Air Force Base (OC2)

Thebephatshwa AFB, BotswanaTakeoff (climb)

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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

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.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Feb 2017 Casa 212 Aviocar accident near Thebephatshwa AFB, Botswana?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed shortly after departing Thebephatshwa Air Force Base, resulting in the deaths of all three crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Feb 2017 Casa 212 Aviocar accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Feb 2017 involved a Casa 212 Aviocar, registration OC2, operated by Botswana Defence Force - Air Wing, at Thebephatshwa AFB, Botswana.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft went out of control during the initial climb following takeoff.