On January 24, 1980, a Fairchild-Hiller FH-227 (registration 5003) operated by Myanmar Air Force - Tatmadaw Lei was involved in an aviation accident near Mandalay-Chanmyathazi (Annisaton), Myanmar during landing or approach. 43 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure after takeoff for undetermined reasons. 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.
Shortly after takeoff from Mandalay-Chianmyathazi Airport, an airplane experienced an engine failure. While attempting an emergency landing, it struck a tobacco factory, killing 43 occupants and seriously injuring a passenger. The aircraft and factory were destroyed. No ground casualties.
Accident
Shortly after departure from Mandalay-Chianmyathazi (Annisaton) Airport, the flight crew reported an engine failure while in the initial climb. Air traffic control cleared the aircraft to return for an emergency landing. During the subsequent circuit, while on final approach, the airplane lost altitude and crashed into a tobacco factory. Both the aircraft and the factory were completely destroyed.
Casualties and Damage
A passenger on board sustained serious injuries. Forty-three other occupants were killed in the crash. No casualties occurred on the ground.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be an engine failure after takeoff for undetermined reasons.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Jan 1980 Fairchild-Hiller FH-227 accident near Mandalay-Chanmyathazi (Annisaton), Myanmar?
Shortly after takeoff from Mandalay-Chianmyathazi Airport, an airplane experienced an engine failure. While attempting an emergency landing, it struck a tobacco factory, killing 43 occupants and seriously injuring a passenger. The aircraft and factory were destroyed. No ground casualties.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 Jan 1980 Fairchild-Hiller FH-227 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 43 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Jan 1980 involved a Fairchild-Hiller FH-227, registration 5003, operated by Myanmar Air Force - Tatmadaw Lei, at Mandalay-Chanmyathazi (Annisaton), Myanmar.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Engine failure after takeoff for undetermined reasons.