Post-maintenance test flight accident involving aircraft banking left at liftoff

No fatalities • Addis Ababa-Lideta, Ethiopia • Takeoff (climb)

During a local test flight following maintenance, an aircraft experienced a loss of control immediately after takeoff, resulting in ground impact and significant damage.

What happened

A flight crew was conducting a routine test flight following recent maintenance work on the aircraft. As the plane reached the point of liftoff, it experienced a sudden left bank. This maneuver caused the aircraft to strike the ground, after which it came to a stop.

There were no injuries reported among the three crew members involved in the incident. However, the aircraft sustained damage that was classified as beyond repair.

Findings

Investigations into the accident revealed that the loss of control was directly linked to improper maintenance procedures. Specifically, technicians at the company had incorrectly reconnected the aileron cables during the maintenance process prior to the commencement of the test flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft's loss of control was caused by the incorrect reconnection of aileron cables during a recent maintenance check.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1963-11-30 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Addis Ababa-Lideta, Ethiopia?

During a local test flight following maintenance, an aircraft experienced a loss of control immediately after takeoff, resulting in ground impact and significant damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 1963-11-30 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 1963-11-30 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration ET-AAT, operated by Ethiopian Airlines, at Addis Ababa-Lideta, Ethiopia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft's loss of control was caused by the incorrect reconnection of aileron cables during a recent maintenance check.

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