18 fatalities

Aircraft crash in Mediterranean Sea following takeoff from Alexandria (SU-AZM)

Alexandria, EgyptTakeoff (climb)

On November 5, 1978, a Douglas DC-3 (registration SU-AZM) operated by Nile Delta Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Alexandria, Egypt during takeoff. 18 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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

An aircraft crashed into the Mediterranean Sea during its initial climb from Alexandria Airport, resulting in no survivors among the 18 people on board.

What happened

During a flight departing from Alexandria Airport, an aircraft experienced a loss of control shortly after departure. While the plane was in its climbing phase, it veered off course and impacted the surface of the Mediterranean Sea.

The flight was operating as a transport mission destined for the Um Barka Oil Field. The impact resulted in 18 fatalities, with no survivors reported from the wreckage. Among the deceased were several individuals holding American citizenship.

Findings

No specific technical malfunctions or environmental factors were detailed in the initial report regarding why the aircraft became uncontrollable during the ascent.