1990-11-12: De Havilland DHC-5 Buffalo (2350) — Brazilian Air Force - Força Aérea Brasileira (1941-) — Rio de Janeiro-Galeão, Brazil

9 fatalitiesRio de Janeiro-Galeão, BrazilTakeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed and burst into flames shortly after departing runway 15 during initial climb, resulting in nine fatalities and one injury among the occupants.

What happened

The incident occurred immediately following departure from runway 15. As the aircraft was establishing its initial climb profile, it executed an unexpected bank to the right. This maneuver led directly into a collision with the ground approximately 300 meters away from the apron area. Upon impact, the airframe disintegrated and ignited, resulting in a significant fire.

Findings

The sequence of events indicates a loss of control during the critical early phase of flight. The proximity to the airport infrastructure suggests that terrain clearance was not maintained following the deviation from the intended flight path. The severity of the impact caused immediate structural failure and combustion.

  • Nine occupants were killed in the crash.
  • One crew member sustained injuries during the accident.
  • The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff.