2 fatalities

1977-03-04: Douglas DC-8 (N8635) — Overseas National Airways - ONA — Niamey, Niger

Niamey, NigerLanding (descent or approach)

On March 4, 1977, a Douglas DC-8 (registration N8635) operated by Overseas National Airways - ONA was involved in an aviation accident near Niamey, Niger during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew continued the approach below the glide until impact with ground. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781228265Data APIEditorial standards

A four-engine cargo airplane, on a flight from Paris to Lagos with an intermediate stop in Niamey, struck the ground 800 meters short of runway 09 during night approach, resulting in two crew fatalities and two injuries.

Incident Overview

A four-engine cargo airplane operating a flight from Paris to Lagos with an intermediate stop in Niamey was involved in an accident while on final approach. The aircraft was carrying various goods on behalf of Union des Transports Aériens (UTA).

Circumstances

During the night approach, the crew did not realize that the aircraft's altitude was too low. The airplane struck the ground 800 meters short of runway 09. Upon impact, it lost its undercarriage and slid for several dozen meters before coming to rest in flames.

Casualties and Injuries

Two crew members were killed, and two others were injured. The source does not specify any other occupants or injuries beyond the crew.

Probable Cause

According to the official findings, the probable cause was that the crew continued the approach below the glide path until impact with the ground.