Aircraft-damage incident during approach to Vila Cabral

No fatalities • Lichinga, Mozambique • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after being struck by ground-based weapons while performing its final approach to Vila Cabral.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight into Vila Cabral, an aircraft was targeted and struck by fire originating from the ground. The impact of the projectiles caused the plane to lose stability, resulting in a crash landing at the destination site.

Despite the severity of the impact and the subsequent crash, there were no fatalities or injuries reported among those on board. However, the structural damage sustained during the event was so extensive that the aircraft was declared a total loss and rendered beyond repair.

Findings

Investigations into the incident concluded that the primary reason for the aircraft's destruction was that it was shot down by enemy fire while maneuvering for landing.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck by ground-based weaponry during its approach to the airfield.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1974-01-08 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Lichinga, Mozambique?

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after being struck by ground-based weapons while performing its final approach to Vila Cabral.

Were there any fatalities in the 1974-01-08 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1974-01-08 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 6162, operated by Portuguese Air Force - Força Aerea Portuguesa (1952-), at Lichinga, Mozambique.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was struck by ground-based weaponry during its approach to the airfield.

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