On November 29, 1971, a Cessna 402 (registration OY-SAW) operated by Sterling Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Billund, Denmark during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. 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); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A twin-engine aircraft crashed near the end of the runway at Billund Airport during a local training mission, resulting in injuries to both crew members.
What happened
During a routine training session conducted at Billund Airport, a twin engine airplane experienced a catastrophic loss of control. The flight was being operated as a local training mission when the aircraft entered its initial climb phase immediately following departure.
While ascending, the aircraft became unstable and veered off course, eventually impacting the ground in the vicinity of the runway's end. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. Both members of the flight crew sustained injuries during the accident.
Findings
The aircraft was in the initial climb phase at the time of the incident.
The loss of control occurred shortly after takeoff from the airfield.
Probable cause
The aircraft went out of control during the initial climb following takeoff.
What happened in the 29 Nov 1971 Cessna 402 accident near Billund, Denmark?
A twin-engine aircraft crashed near the end of the runway at Billund Airport during a local training mission, resulting in injuries to both crew members.
Were there any fatalities in the 29 Nov 1971 Cessna 402 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Nov 1971 involved a Cessna 402, registration OY-SAW, operated by Sterling Airways, at Billund, Denmark.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft went out of control during the initial climb following takeoff.
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