No fatalities

Aircraft crash shortly after takeoff at Mombasa Kilindini (VP-KAW)

Mombasa, KenyaTakeoff (climb)

On December 8, 1933, a De Havilland DH.84 Dragon (registration VP-KAW) operated by Wilson Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Mombasa, Kenya during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during the initial climb phase. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into the ground shortly after departing from Kilindini in Mombasa due to an engine failure. Both occupants sustained injuries, and the airframe was destroyed.

What happened

The incident occurred during the initial climb phase following a departure from Kilindini in Mombasa. Shortly after leaving the ground, the aircraft experienced a stall and subsequently impacted the terrain. The impact resulted in the destruction of the airframe. Both individuals on board survived the crash but sustained injuries.

Findings

Investigations into the event identified mechanical issues as the primary factor. Specifically, the official findings concluded that an engine failure occurred during the initial climb, which directly led to the loss of control and the subsequent crash.

Probable cause

Engine failure during the initial climb phase.