No fatalities

1976-10-13: Douglas DC-6 (ET-AAZ) — Ethiopian Airlines — Asmara, Eritrea

Asmara, EritreaTakeoff (climb)

On October 13, 1976, a Douglas DC-6 (registration ET-AAZ) operated by Ethiopian Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Asmara, Eritrea during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The collapse of the right main landing gear during the takeoff roll. 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)Primary reportUpdated 1781228766Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced a landing gear failure during its takeoff roll at Asmara Airport, resulting in the plane veering off the runway.

What happened

While performing a takeoff roll at Asmara Airport, the right main gear of the aircraft failed. This structural collapse caused the aircraft to deviate from the runway centerline, veering toward the right side of the airstrip. The movement continued until the plane came to a complete stop off the paved surface.

There were no injuries reported during the incident, as all occupants managed to evacuate the aircraft safely following the excursion. While the crew and passengers escaped without harm, the aircraft sustained significant damage and was subsequently declared a total loss.

Findings

Official investigations into the event concluded that the primary factor was the failure of the right main landing gear during the initial phase of the takeoff roll. The specific underlying reason for this mechanical failure remains undetermined.

Probable cause

The collapse of the right main landing gear during the takeoff roll.