No fatalities

1975-02-21: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (R3707) — Air Force of Zimbabwe — Rushinga-Forward Airfield, Zimbabwe

Rushinga-Forward Airfield, ZimbabweLanding (descent or approach)

On February 21, 1975, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration R3707) operated by Air Force of Zimbabwe was involved in an aviation accident near Rushinga-Forward Airfield, Zimbabwe during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by the failure of the aircraft's brakes during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781230552Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced a ground loop following touchdown due to a malfunction in the braking system, resulting in structural damage and one minor injury.

What happened

Upon completing the landing phase, the aircraft experienced a sudden failure of its braking systems. This mechanical malfunction triggered a ground loop during the rollout. During the course of the incident, both propellers became detached from the engine, and the left main landing gear sustained significant damage, being partially torn from the airframe.

There were three crew members on board at the time of the accident. The two pilots escaped without injury, while the flight engineer sustained a slight wound. Following the event, the aircraft was transported by truck to Salisbury for assessment and potential repairs; however, the vessel was ultimately declared a total loss.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the ground loop was the failure of the braking systems immediately after touchdown.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the failure of the aircraft's brakes during the landing roll.