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Nighttime aircraft accident at Ngara Airstrip (5H-ZAN)

Ngara, TanzaniaTakeoff (climb)

On March 9, 1994, a Cessna 402 (registration 5H-ZAN) operated by Zanair was involved in an aviation accident near Ngara, Tanzania during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck obstacles during takeoff, causing a loss of altitude and a subsequent post-crash fire. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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

A single-engine aircraft crashed following a collision with obstacles during a night takeoff from Ngara Airstrip, resulting in a post-crash fire.

What happened

During a night departure from Ngara Airstrip, a twin engine aircraft encountered obstacles that made contact with the left wing of the plane. This impact caused the aircraft to lose altitude, leading to a crash. Upon impact, the aircraft caught fire.

There was only the pilot on board at the time of the accident. The individual sustained slight injuries during the event. The aircraft was completely destroyed due to the post-crash fire.

Findings

  • The aircraft struck obstacles during the takeoff phase.
  • The collision with the left wing resulted in a loss of altitude.
  • A fire ignited following the impact, leading to the total loss of the airframe.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck obstacles during takeoff, causing a loss of altitude and a subsequent post-crash fire.

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