3 fatalities

Accident During Night Takeoff from Jamba Airport (ZS-DHX)

Jamba, AngolaTakeoff (climb)

On August 31, 1992, a Douglas DC-3 (registration ZS-DHX) operated by Professional Aviation Services was involved in an aviation accident near Jamba, Angola during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The copilot was the PIC at the time of the accident. It was reported that engine power was reduced shortly after liftoff and the copilot asked the captain to raise the flaps and to switch off the approach light just after rotation. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after a night takeoff from Jamba Airport, the aircraft rolled right, struck trees, and crashed near the runway end. 14 passengers were injured, and three crew members were killed.

Accident Summary

Shortly after a night takeoff from Jamba Airport, while in initial climb, the aircraft rolled to the right, causing the right wing to strike trees. The airplane subsequently lost height and crashed near the runway end.

Injuries and Damage

All 14 passengers were injured, and all three crew members were killed.

Investigation and Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the copilot was the pilot-in-command at the time of the accident. It was reported that engine power was reduced shortly after liftoff, and the copilot asked the captain to raise the flaps and to switch off the approach light just after rotation. The assumption that the PIC suffered spatial disorientation at liftoff was not ruled out.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Aug 1992 Douglas DC-3 accident near Jamba, Angola?

Shortly after a night takeoff from Jamba Airport, the aircraft rolled right, struck trees, and crashed near the runway end. 14 passengers were injured, and three crew members were killed.

Were there any fatalities in the 31 Aug 1992 Douglas DC-3 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Aug 1992 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration ZS-DHX, operated by Professional Aviation Services, at Jamba, Angola.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The copilot was the PIC at the time of the accident. It was reported that engine power was reduced shortly after liftoff and the copilot asked the captain to raise the flaps and to switch off the approach light just after rotation. The assumption that the PIC suffered a spatial disorientation at liftoff was not ruled…