No fatalities

Takeoff Accident Destroys Aircraft; All 25 Occupants Escape Uninjured (EP-AGZ)

Ahwaz, IranTakeoff (climb)

On April 13, 1970, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration EP-AGZ) operated by Air Taxi Company (Iran) was involved in an aviation accident near Ahwaz, Iran during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the crew failed to follow pre take-off check-list and that the aircraft was not configured for departure. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, the aircraft banked left at liftoff, left wing struck ground, cartwheeled, and caught fire. All 25 occupants evacuated uninjured. Investigation cited failure to follow pre-takeoff checklist and improper configuration.

Accident Sequence

The accident occurred during the takeoff phase. According to the official investigation, the pilot-in-command initiated rotation after a takeoff roll of 450 meters. As the aircraft lifted off, it unexpectedly banked to the left. The left wing then struck the ground, causing a loss of control. The aircraft subsequently cartwheeled and crashed, bursting into flames.

Injuries and Damage

All 25 persons on board evacuated the aircraft without any injuries. The aircraft itself was completely destroyed by the impact and ensuing fire.

Investigation and Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident. It concluded that the flight crew failed to follow the pre-takeoff checklist and that the aircraft had not been configured correctly for departure.