No fatalities

Engine fire leads to emergency landing near Bloemfontein (6843)

Bloemfontein, South AfricaFlight

On September 20, 1987, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration 6843) operated by South African Air Force - SAAF was involved in an aviation accident near Bloemfontein, South Africa in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the engine fire remains undetermined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-13Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an engine failure and subsequent fire during flight, resulting in an emergency landing in South Africa.

What happened

While operating in the region of Bloemfontein, an aircraft experienced a critical mechanical failure when one of its engines ceased functioning and ignited. In response to the developing fire, the crew initiated emergency procedures to manage the situation.

The flight concluded with an emergency landing performed in close proximity to a roadway. Although the aircraft type sustained damage that rendered it a total loss, all three crew members were able to evacuate the wreckage safely. No injuries were reported following the incident.

Findings

Investigations into the event focused on the sudden onset of the fire. The primary factor identified was an engine fire occurring for reasons that have not yet been determined.

Probable cause

The cause of the engine fire remains undetermined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Sept 1987 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Bloemfontein, South Africa?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure and subsequent fire during flight, resulting in an emergency landing in South Africa.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Sept 1987 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Sept 1987 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 6843, operated by South African Air Force - SAAF, at Bloemfontein, South Africa.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The cause of the engine fire remains undetermined.