No fatalities

Aircraft accident at Ladysmith Airport (ZS-DJT)

Ladysmith, South AfricaLanding (descent or approach)

On October 11, 1963, a De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide (registration ZS-DJT) operated by Ladysmith Air Charter was involved in an aviation accident near Ladysmith, South Africa during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft lost directional control immediately following touchdown on the runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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

A twin-engine aircraft veered off the runway after landing at Ladysmith Airport, resulting in no injuries but significant damage to the airframe.

What happened

On the date of the incident, a twin engine aircraft was performing its landing sequence at Ladysmith Airport. Upon completing the touchdown phase of the flight, the aircraft lost directional control on the runway.

Following the loss of control, the plane traveled off the prepared surface and eventually came to a complete stop. Despite the impact with the ground, all six occupants were able to evacuate the wreckage without sustaining any injuries.

Findings

An assessment of the aircraft following the event determined that the airframe had sustained damage so extensive that it was deemed beyond repair. The specific mechanical or operational reasons for the loss of control during the landing roll were not detailed in the provided report.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost directional control immediately following touchdown on the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Oct 1963 De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide accident near Ladysmith, South Africa?

A twin-engine aircraft veered off the runway after landing at Ladysmith Airport, resulting in no injuries but significant damage to the airframe.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Oct 1963 De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Oct 1963 involved a De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide, registration ZS-DJT, operated by Ladysmith Air Charter, at Ladysmith, South Africa.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost directional control immediately following touchdown on the runway.