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1973 Vila Gago Coutinho Ground Impact Accident (CR-LKE)

Vila Gago Coutinho, AngolaLanding (descent or approach)

On December 31, 1973, a De Havilland DH.104 Dove (registration CR-LKE) operated by Aerangol (Transportes Aéreos de Angola) was involved in an aviation accident near Vila Gago Coutinho, Angola during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft struck the ground on approach to Vila Gago Coutinho in 1973 after the crew failed to recognize low altitude. The undercarriage was torn off, occupants escaped uninjured, and the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Accident Overview and Location Details in 1973 Vila Gago Coutinho Ground Impact Accident On approach to Vila Gago Coutinho, the crew did not realize the aircraft's altitude was too low, resulting in a ground impact. The accident occurred at some point in 1973, with the exact date remaining unknown. The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, operator, or precise location beyond the approach to Vila Gago Coutinho. ## Impact and Damage During the impact, the undercarriage was torn off. Following the initial ground contact, the aircraft slid on its belly for several meters before coming to rest. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair as a result of the accident. ## Occupant Outcome All occupants escaped the accident uninjured, despite the aircraft being destroyed. The source does not provide further details on the number of occupants, their identities, or the specific circumstances leading to the low-altitude approach.

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