Aircraft accident near Sendafa, Ethiopia

5 fatalities • Sendafa, Ethiopia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed in a prairie near Addis Ababa following engine malfunctions during the climb phase of flight.

What happened

Shortly after departing from Addis Ababa-Bole Airport, the crew of the aircraft experienced mechanical issues involving both propellers, which were noted to be rotating incorrectly. In response to these complications during the climb, the pilot initiated a descent to attempt an emergency landing.

During this maneuver, the aircraft entered a stall and subsequently crashed into a prairie area situated in Sendafa, approximately 30 km northeast of Bole Airport. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. The accident resulted in five fatalities, including one pilot and four passengers, while 14 other occupants sustained injuries.

Findings

  • The crew encountered simultaneous malfunctions with both propellers during the initial climb phase.
  • The aircraft stalled while the pilot was attempting to descend for an emergency landing.

Probable cause

Improper propeller rotation led to a loss of control and an aerodynamic stall during an emergency descent.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1961-09-05 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Sendafa, Ethiopia?

An aircraft crashed in a prairie near Addis Ababa following engine malfunctions during the climb phase of flight.

Were there any fatalities in the 1961-09-05 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1961-09-05 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration ET-T-16, operated by Ethiopian Airlines, at Sendafa, Ethiopia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Improper propeller rotation led to a loss of control and an aerodynamic stall during an emergency descent.

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