1 fatality

1977-05-31: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (R3702) — Air Force of Zimbabwe — Mapai, Mozambique

Mapai, MozambiqueTakeoff (climb)

On May 31, 1977, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration R3702) operated by Air Force of Zimbabwe was involved in an aviation accident near Mapai, Mozambique during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was struck by an RPG7 projectile during its initial climb phase. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781227933Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft was destroyed by ground fire during its initial climb following departure from Mapai Airport, resulting in one fatality.

What happened

During the early stages of flight following departure from Mapai Airport, an aircraft was struck by an RPG7 projectile. The incident occurred while the plane was performing its initial climb. The impact caused the aircraft to crash into a nearby field, where it was consumed by flames.

The accident resulted in one fatality, involving the captain, and left three other occupants injured. The wreckage of the plane was completely destroyed due to the force of the impact and the subsequent post-crash fire.

Findings

Investigations concluded that the primary reason for the crash was that the aircraft was shot down by ground fire.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck by an RPG7 projectile during its initial climb phase.