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Ground excursion involving twin-engine aircraft at remote airfield (F-BTCU)

Faléa, MaliLanding (descent or approach)

On October 31, 1980, a Dornier DO.28D Skyservant (registration F-BTCU) operated by Hemet Exploration was involved in an aviation accident near Faléa, Mali during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck uneven terrain on the runway surface during its landing roll. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 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 airplane sustained damage after striking ground irregularities during its landing roll at a remote airstrip.

What happened

Following the completion of its landing sequence at a remote airfield, a twin-engine aircraft encountered uneven terrain on the runway surface. As the plane proceeded along the ground, it struck various irregularities in the earth, causing significant mechanical stress to the airframe. The impact resulted in the right engine being partially detached from the wing.

Despite the damage to the propulsion system, the aircraft remained controllable enough to come to a complete stop. There were no reports of fire or further structural failure following the impact. Both individuals on board, including the crew, managed to exit the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The aircraft was subsequently left at the site of the incident.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was the presence of surface irregularities on the landing strip.
  • The impact with the uneven ground was severe enough to cause partial separation of the right engine.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck uneven terrain on the runway surface during its landing roll.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Oct 1980 Dornier DO.28D Skyservant accident near Faléa, Mali?

A twin-engine airplane sustained damage after striking ground irregularities during its landing roll at a remote airstrip.

Were there any fatalities in the 31 Oct 1980 Dornier DO.28D Skyservant accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Oct 1980 involved a Dornier DO.28D Skyservant, registration F-BTCU, operated by Hemet Exploration, at Faléa, Mali.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck uneven terrain on the runway surface during its landing roll.

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