Mid-air collision of two C-119 aircraft near Chièvres Airbase

5 fatalities • Chièvres AFB, Belgium • Flight

Two military transport planes collided during a training mission near Chièvres Airbase, resulting in the loss of both aircraft and all crew members on board.

What happened

During a scheduled local training exercise, two C-119 transport aircraft departed from Chièvres Airbase. The flight included one aircraft, registered CP-25, alongside another unit. While operating in the airspace near the airfield, the two planes were involved in a mid-air collision.

Following the impact, both aircraft fell into a field situated in Montignies-lez-Lens, which is located approximately 6 km east of the departure airbase. The crash resulted in the total destruction of both airframes. There were no survivors among the personnel on board, with a total of 13 fatalities recorded across both crews.

Findings

  • The collision occurred while the aircraft were performing maneuvers for a combined training mission.
  • Both aircraft were destroyed upon impact with the ground.

Probable cause

A mid-air collision between two transport aircraft during a local training exercise.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1961-12-12 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident near Chièvres AFB, Belgium?

Two military transport planes collided during a training mission near Chièvres Airbase, resulting in the loss of both aircraft and all crew members on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1961-12-12 Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1961-12-12 involved a Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar, registration CP-23, operated by Belgian Air Force - Force Aérienne Belge - Belgische Luchtmacht, at Chièvres AFB, Belgium.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A mid-air collision between two transport aircraft during a local training exercise.

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