12 fatalities

1979-05-27: De Havilland DHC-5 Buffalo (5T-MAX) — Mauritanian Air Force - Force Aérienne Islamique de Mauritanie — Dakar-Yoff, Senegal

Dakar-Yoff, SenegalTakeoff (climb)

On May 27, 1979, a De Havilland DHC-5 Buffalo (registration 5T-MAX) operated by Mauritanian Air Force - Force Aérienne Islamique de Mauritanie was involved in an aviation accident near Dakar-Yoff, Senegal during takeoff. 12 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft lost control during its initial climb following takeoff from Dakar-Yoff Airport. 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)Primary reportUpdated 1781225244Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into the Atlantic Ocean shortly after departing from Dakar-Yoff Airport, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

On the date of the accident, a twin engine aircraft departed from Dakar-Yost Airport. During the initial climb phase following takeoff, the aircraft experienced a loss of control. The plane subsequently impacted the ocean a few kilometers away from the coastline.

There were 12 fatalities recorded in the incident, as all individuals on board perished in the crash. The occupants included the pilot and several passengers.

Findings

The investigation into the event noted that the aircraft became uncontrollable while ascending. While the specific mechanical or environmental triggers for the loss of control were not detailed in the provided report, the impact occurred during the climb phase of flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost control during its initial climb following takeoff from Dakar-Yoff Airport.