No fatalities

1978-10-15: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (ET-AGK) — Ethiopian Airlines — Soddo, Ethiopia

Soddo, EthiopiaLanding (descent or approach)

On October 15, 1978, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration ET-AGK) operated by Ethiopian Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Soddo, Ethiopia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A total loss of hydraulic pressure led to the failure of both engines during flight. 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 1781226044Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced engine failure during cruise, leading to an emergency diversion and subsequent runway excursion at Soddo Airfield.

What happened

During the cruise phase of flight, the crew identified mechanical issues involving the engines. In response to these complications, the decision was made to perform an emergency diversion to Soddo Airfield.

Upon arriving at the airfield, the aircraft touched down on the runway; however, both engines ceased operation immediately following the landing. The pilot was unable to decelerate the aircraft within the available 1,200 meters of runway length. Consequently, the plane overran the end of the runway and settled in a nearby drainage ditch. While the aircraft was destroyed in the accident, all 32 occupants were successfully rescued without reported fatalities.

Findings

Investigation into the incident revealed that the engine malfunctions were triggered by a complete loss of hydraulic pressure, which dropped to zero.

Probable cause

A total loss of hydraulic pressure led to the failure of both engines during flight.