6 fatalities

Aircraft Crashes into Sea After Takeoff from Brindisi Airport (OD-AEC)

Brindisi, ItalyTakeoff (climb)

On July 9, 1962, a Douglas DC-4 (registration OD-AEC) operated by TMA of Lebanon - Trans Mediterranean Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Brindisi, Italy during takeoff. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was probably caused by a loss of power on No.1 and 2 engines following takeoff, which resulted in a gradual loss of height. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered OD-AEC
Aircraft registered OD-AEC. Photo: RuthAS / CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

After a normal takeoff from Brindisi Airport, the aircraft failed to gain height, descended from 60 m, and struck the sea about 2,250 m from the runway. All six crew members were killed. The probable cause was loss of power on two engines and possible crew fatigue.

Accident Details

Following a normal takeoff from Brindisi Airport runway 05, the aircraft did not gain height as expected. After reaching a height of 60 meters, it began to descend gradually, maintaining a slightly banked attitude to port. The aircraft struck the sea approximately 2,250 meters from the end of the runway, at a point 4° left of the extended runway centerline. The impact destroyed the aircraft, and a fire broke out subsequently. All six crew members on board were killed.

Investigation and Probable Cause

Official investigation findings state that the accident was probably caused by a loss of power on engines No. 1 and 2 following takeoff, which resulted in a gradual loss of height. Additionally, the probable slow psycho-physical reaction of the crew, due to fatigue, may have prevented perception of the danger and the timely execution of maneuvers to prevent the accident or minimize its consequences.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Jul 1962 Douglas DC-4 accident near Brindisi, Italy?

After a normal takeoff from Brindisi Airport, the aircraft failed to gain height, descended from 60 m, and struck the sea about 2,250 m from the runway. All six crew members were killed. The probable cause was loss of power on two engines and possible crew fatigue.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Jul 1962 Douglas DC-4 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Jul 1962 involved a Douglas DC-4, registration OD-AEC, operated by TMA of Lebanon - Trans Mediterranean Airways, at Brindisi, Italy.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was probably caused by a loss of power on No.1 and 2 engines following takeoff, which resulted in a gradual loss of height. The probable slow psycho-physical reaction of the crew, due to fatigue, may have prevented perception of the danger and the timely execution of manoeuvres to prevent the accident,…