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5 fatalities

Fatal aircraft accident near Jimma Airport (ET-ABF)

Jimma, EthiopiaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 20, 1977, a Douglas DC-3 (registration ET-ABF) operated by Ethiopian Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Jimma, Ethiopia during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck a mountain slope during an approach in poor visibility and heavy rain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its descent to Jimma Airport, resulting in the deaths of all five people on board.

What happened

During an approach to Jimma Airport, the flight crew was navigating through challenging meteorological conditions. The area was experiencing heavy rain showers, low cloud cover, and significantly reduced visibility.

As the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 8,000 feet, it impacted a mountain slope situated a short distance from the airport. The impact resulted in a crash that caused five fatalities among the occupants of the plane.

Findings

  • The descent was conducted amidst adverse weather, including rain and low visibility.
  • The aircraft struck terrain while at 8,000 feet during the approach phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a mountain slope during an approach in poor visibility and heavy rain.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jul 1977 Douglas DC-3 accident near Jimma, Ethiopia?

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its descent to Jimma Airport, resulting in the deaths of all five people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Jul 1977 Douglas DC-3 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jul 1977 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration ET-ABF, operated by Ethiopian Airlines, at Jimma, Ethiopia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck a mountain slope during an approach in poor visibility and heavy rain.

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