Aircraft crash near Sara Kawa Airport

6 fatalities • Sara Kawa, Togo • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed during its approach to Sara Kawa Airport, resulting in multiple fatalities including high-ranking officials.

What happened

During the final approach to Sara Kawa Airport, an aircraft descended to an altitude of approximately 50 meters before the nose pitched downward. The descent resulted in a crash located roughly 800 meters before reaching the runway threshold.

The accident involved a total of 18 people on board. There were 6 fatalities recorded, including both pilots and four passengers. Among those who lost their lives were several high-ranking officers and the President of the Togolese Republic. Additionally, the crash resulted in 13 injuries sustained by other occupants of the aircraft.

Findings

Official investigations into the accident did not reach a definitive conclusion regarding the precise cause of the crash. While no specific mechanical or operational failure was confirmed, the Togolese Presidency noted that the possibility of sabotage remained an unruled-out factor in the investigation.

Probable cause

The exact cause of the crash remains undetermined, though sabotage has not been ruled out by officials.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1974-01-24 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Sara Kawa, Togo?

An aircraft crashed during its approach to Sara Kawa Airport, resulting in multiple fatalities including high-ranking officials.

Were there any fatalities in the 1974-01-24 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1974-01-24 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 5V-MAG, operated by Togolese Air Force - Forces aériennes togolaises, at Sara Kawa, Togo.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exact cause of the crash remains undetermined, though sabotage has not been ruled out by officials.

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