Accident Overview
A twin-engine aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Johannesburg-Rand Airport following a left engine failure during initial climb. The accident occurred while the pilot was attempting to return for an emergency landing. The aircraft went out of control and came to rest 2 kilometers from the runway threshold.
Sequence of Events
After departure, while climbing away from the airport, the left engine failed. The pilot decided to return to the airfield and commenced a left-hand circuit. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft lost control and descended into terrain near the airport. The crash site was located approximately 2 km from the end of the runway.
Casualties and Injuries
The captain, Paddy Johnston, and two passengers were killed in the accident. Eight other occupants sustained injuries, including the copilot, Captain Roy Matthews. The total number of people on board was not specified in the source.
Investigation
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be an engine failure for an undetermined reason. No further details regarding the investigation or contributing factors were provided in the source.