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Engine failure leads to aircraft destruction during takeoff (6850)

Swartkop AFB (Pretoria), South AfricaTakeoff (climb)

On August 4, 1972, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration 6850) operated by South African Air Force - SAAF was involved in an aviation accident near Swartkop AFB (Pretoria), South Africa during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft experienced a mechanical engine failure during the takeoff phase, resulting in a loss of lift and subsequent stall. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft operating for the 44th Squadron crashed following an engine malfunction during its departure phase, resulting in a post-crash fire.

What happened

During the initial climb immediately following liftoff, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of power due to an engine malfunction. This failure led to an aerodynamic stall, causing the plane to descend rapidly. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground and was overtaken by flames.

At the time of the incident, the flight was performing a mission as part of the 44th Squadron's operations. While the impact and subsequent fire resulted in the total destruction of the airframe, there were no fatalities or injuries reported among those on board.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor leading to the crash was an engine failure occurring during the takeoff sequence.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced a mechanical engine failure during the takeoff phase, resulting in a loss of lift and subsequent stall.
Engine failure

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Aug 1972 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Swartkop AFB (Pretoria), South Africa?

An aircraft operating for the 44th Squadron crashed following an engine malfunction during its departure phase, resulting in a post-crash fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Aug 1972 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 4 Aug 1972 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 6850, operated by South African Air Force - SAAF, at Swartkop AFB (Pretoria), South Africa.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced a mechanical engine failure during the takeoff phase, resulting in a loss of lift and subsequent stall.

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