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13 fatalities

Fatal aircraft crash during food delivery mission in Zambia (AF-216)

Mongu, ZambiaTakeoff (climb)

On May 18, 2005, a Harbin Yunsunji Y-12 (registration AF-216) operated by Zambia Air Force was involved in an aviation accident near Mongu, Zambia during takeoff. 13 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall during the initial climb phase. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Mongu, resulting in the deaths of all 13 people on board.

What happened

During a mission to transport essential supplies to drought-affected regions in Zambia, a twin-engine aircraft crashed following its departure from Mongu. The flight was tasked with delivering food to areas suffering from severe water shortages.

As the aircraft was performing its initial climb, the plane experienced an aerodynamic stall. The subsequent impact with the ground caused the airframe to burst into flames. There were no survivors of the accident, as all 13 occupants perished in the crash.

Findings

  • The aircraft entered a stall during the early stages of the climb.
  • The impact resulted in a post-crash fire.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall during the initial climb phase.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 May 2005 Harbin Yunsunji Y-12 accident near Mongu, Zambia?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Mongu, resulting in the deaths of all 13 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 May 2005 Harbin Yunsunji Y-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 13 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 May 2005 involved a Harbin Yunsunji Y-12, registration AF-216, operated by Zambia Air Force, at Mongu, Zambia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall during the initial climb phase.

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