On August 8, 1994, a Cessna 406 Caravan (registration 5Y-JJG) operated by Tawakal Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Nairobi-Wilson, Kenya during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's window opened, distracting the pilot and causing loss of control. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Shortly after takeoff from Nairobi-Wilson Airport runway 14, the pilot's window opened. Distracted, the pilot lost control, causing the aircraft to lose height, strike a concrete wall, and slide approximately 400 meters. All three occupants sustained minor injuries; the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Incident Details
Shortly after taking off from Nairobi-Wilson Airport runway 14, the aircraft began its climb. During this phase, the pilot's window opened unexpectedly. This distraction caused the pilot to lose control of the airplane.
Sequence of Events
As a result of the loss of control, the aircraft descended and struck a concrete wall located beyond the end of the runway. It then hit the ground, shearing off its undercarriage. The airplane slid for about 400 meters before coming to rest.
Aftermath
All three occupants escaped from the aircraft with minor injuries. The aircraft itself was damaged beyond repair.
Probable cause
The pilot's window opened, distracting the pilot and causing loss of control.