Bird strike during approach to Addis Ababa-Bole Airport

No fatalities • Addis Ababa-Bole, Ethiopia • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine aircraft sustained windshield damage following a bird strike during its final approach to Addis Ababa-Bole Airport, resulting in an emergency landing.

What happened

During the final approach phase at Addis Ababa-Bole Airport, a twin engine aircraft struck a bird, identified as a white backed vulture weighing approximately 5.4 kg. The impact caused the aircraft's windshield to shatter, leading to serious injuries for both the pilot and the co-pilot.

Despite the damage and the injuries sustained by the crew, the flight crew attempted an emergency landing. The aircraft ultimately crashed approximately 300 metres before reaching the runway threshold. All 20 occupants on board were successfully rescued from the wreckage, though 9 injuries were reported among the passengers and crew.

Probable cause

A collision with a large bird during the final approach phase caused significant structural damage to the windshield and subsequent loss of control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-10-22 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Addis Ababa-Bole, Ethiopia?

A twin-engine aircraft sustained windshield damage following a bird strike during its final approach to Addis Ababa-Bole Airport, resulting in an emergency landing.

Were there any fatalities in the 1995-10-22 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-10-22 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration ET-AIO, operated by Ethiopian Airlines, at Addis Ababa-Bole, Ethiopia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A collision with a large bird during the final approach phase caused significant structural damage to the windshield and subsequent loss of control.

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