34 fatalities

Aircraft Accident at Clonloghan: Loss of Altitude During Departure (I-DUVO)

Shannon, IrelandTakeoff (climb)

On February 26, 1960, a Douglas DC-7 (registration I-DUVO) operated by Alitalia - Linee Aeree Italiane was involved in an aviation accident near Shannon, Ireland during takeoff. 34 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: No definite evidence leading to a particular reason for this accident was revealed by the investigation. It can only be concluded that the airplane lost height in a turn shortly after takeoff and struck the ground. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into an open field near Clonloghan church shortly after takeoff from runway 05. The plane lost altitude during a left turn, striking a stone wall before impacting the ground. Thirty-four people were killed and eighteen were seriously injured.

Incident Overview

The accident occurred immediately following departure from runway 05. As the aircraft climbed to an altitude of 165 feet, the pilot initiated a left-hand turn in accordance with standard departure procedures. During this maneuver, the airplane experienced a loss of height.

Impact and Damage

As the aircraft descended, its left wingtip made contact with a stone wall situated near the Clonloghan church. Following this collision, the aircraft became uncontrollable and crashed into an open field. The impact resulted in the complete destruction of the airframe, which was subsequently engulfed in flames.

Casualties

The crash had severe consequences for those on board. Of the twelve crew members present, eleven lost their lives. Additionally, twenty-three passengers were killed in the incident. A total of eighteen individuals sustained serious injuries as a result of the accident.

Probable cause

No definite evidence leading to a particular reason for this accident was revealed by the investigation. It can only be concluded that the airplane lost height in a turn shortly after takeoff and struck the ground.