4 fatalities

Four Crew Killed in Runway Excursion After Undercarriage Strikes Hole (MM52-6014)

Albertville, Democratic Republic of CongoLanding (descent or approach)

On November 17, 1961, a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar (registration MM52-6014) operated by Italian Air Force - Aeronautica Militare Italiana was involved in an aviation accident near Albertville, Democratic Republic of Congo during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. 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

A humanitarian flight operated on behalf of UNO crashed at Albertville Airport after the undercarriage struck a runway hole, shearing off and leading to a loss of control. Four crew members were killed, six others injured.

Incident Overview

A humanitarian flight conducted under the auspices of the United Nations Organization (UNO) was completing a route from Pisa to Albertville with an intermediate stop at Entebbe. Upon landing at Albertville Airport, the aircraft's undercarriage encountered a hole in the runway surface during the braking procedure. The impact sheared off the undercarriage, causing the crew to lose control. The airplane veered off the runway and came to rest in flames.

Injuries and Fatalities

Four crew members were killed in the accident. Six other occupants sustained injuries. No further details on the nature of injuries were provided.

Aircraft and Flight Details

The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, or operator. However, the flight was conducted on behalf of UNO, indicating a humanitarian mission. The flight itinerary included a stop at Entebbe before proceeding to Albertville.

Runway Condition

The accident was precipitated by a hole in the runway surface at Albertville Airport. The source does not describe the hole's size, location, or whether it was known to airport authorities.

Post-Impact Events

Following the undercarriage failure and loss of control, the aircraft veered off the runway and caught fire. The source does not detail the extent of damage to the aircraft or the airport infrastructure.