No fatalities

Twin-engine aircraft overrun during takeoff (CR-ACJ)

Mambone, MozambiqueTakeoff (climb)

On March 21, 1954, a De Havilland DH.104 Dove (registration CR-ACJ) operated by DETA Mozambique Airlines - Direcção de Exploração dos Transportes Aéreos was involved in an aviation accident near Mambone, Mozambique during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft overran the runway during takeoff, leading to landing gear separation and extensive structural damage. 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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft sustained significant damage after overrunning the runway during its takeoff roll.

What happened

During a takeoff attempt, a twin-engine aircraft experienced an overrun on the runway. As the aircraft continued past the end of the paved surface, the force of the excursion caused the undercarriage to separate from the airframe. The vessel eventually came to a halt after the structural failure occurred.

There were no injuries reported among the occupants during the incident. However, the impact and subsequent movement resulted in the aircraft being declared a total loss, as the damage was deemed beyond repair.

Findings

  • The aircraft's landing gear was lost during the runway excursion.
  • The structural damage sustained was sufficient to render the aircraft unserviceable.

Probable cause

The aircraft overran the runway during takeoff, leading to landing gear separation and extensive structural damage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Mar 1954 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident near Mambone, Mozambique?

A twin-engine aircraft sustained significant damage after overrunning the runway during its takeoff roll.

Were there any fatalities in the 21 Mar 1954 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Mar 1954 involved a De Havilland DH.104 Dove, registration CR-ACJ, operated by DETA Mozambique Airlines - Direcção de Exploração dos Transportes Aéreos, at Mambone, Mozambique.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft overran the runway during takeoff, leading to landing gear separation and extensive structural damage.