Emergency belly landing at Robe Airport

No fatalities • Robe (Goba), Ethiopia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced engine failure during its initial climb from Robe Airport, resulting in an emergency landing in a nearby field.

What happened

During the departure phase from Robe Airport, an aircraft experienced a significant mechanical issue shortly after leaving the runway. While the plane was in its climbing phase, the left engine suffered a loss of power, with revolutions dropping to approximately 1,500 rpm. This malfunction triggered intense vibrations throughout the airframe.

In response to the engine failure, the pilot attempted to execute a return to runway 15. However, as it became apparent that the aircraft lacked the performance to reach the runway, an emergency landing was initiated. The plane descended into an open field situated roughly 2 km north of the airport, where it performed a belly landing.

Outcomes

Despite the impact, all seven occupants were able to evacuate the wreckage without injury. While there were no fatalities, the aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.

Probable cause

The left engine experienced a significant reduction in power during the climb, leading to severe vibrations and an inability to return to the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-12-28 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Robe (Goba), Ethiopia?

An aircraft experienced engine failure during its initial climb from Robe Airport, resulting in an emergency landing in a nearby field.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-12-28 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-12-28 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration ET-AGO, operated by Ethiopian Airlines, at Robe (Goba), Ethiopia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The left engine experienced a significant reduction in power during the climb, leading to severe vibrations and an inability to return to the runway.

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