5 fatalities

Aircraft Crashes Near Sendafa After Propeller Issues and Stall (ET-T-16)

Sendafa, EthiopiaTakeoff (climb)

On September 5, 1961, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration ET-T-16) operated by Ethiopian Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Sendafa, Ethiopia during takeoff. 5 people were killed. 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)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa-Bole Airport, the crew encountered propeller problems. The captain reduced altitude for an emergency landing, but the aircraft stalled and crashed in a prairie near Sendafa, 30 km northeast. One pilot and four passengers were killed; 14 others were injured.

Incident Overview

Minutes after departing from Addis Ababa-Bole Airport, the climbing aircraft experienced difficulties with both propellers, which were turning improperly. In response, the captain initiated a descent to attempt an emergency landing. During this maneuver, the aircraft stalled and subsequently crashed into a prairie near Sendafa, approximately 30 kilometers northeast of the airport.

Casualties and Damage

The accident resulted in the deaths of one pilot and four passengers. Additionally, 14 other occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact.

Location

The crash site is located in a prairie area in Sendafa, situated about 30 km northeast of Addis Ababa-Bole Airport.

Context

The flight had just taken off from Bole Airport when the propeller problems emerged. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, operator, or other specifics are provided in the source.