Fatal crash of three-engine aircraft near Beijing-Xijiao Airport

192 fatalities • Beijing-Xijiao, China • Takeoff (climb)

A training flight involving a three-engine airplane crashed into a factory near Beijing-Xijiao Airport, resulting in massive casualties.

What happened

A training mission departing from Beijing-Xijiao Airport ended in a catastrophic accident during the early stages of flight. Shortly after the three-engine airplane commenced its initial climb, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude. The plane subsequently struck a factory building situated in close proximity to the airfield, triggering a massive explosion.

The impact and subsequent fire resulted in an immense loss of life. Records indicate that all 12 occupants on board the aircraft perished in the accident. Furthermore, the crash caused the deaths of at least 180 people located within the factory at the time of the collision.

Findings

Investigations into the disaster highlighted issues regarding flight operations and crew proficiency. The primary factor identified was that the pilot-in-command possessed limited experience and lacked familiarity with this specific aircraft type.

Probable cause

The accident was attributed to the pilot-in-command's lack of sufficient training and familiarity with the aircraft model.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1979-03-14 Hawker Siddeley HS.121 Trident accident near Beijing-Xijiao, China?

A training flight involving a three-engine airplane crashed into a factory near Beijing-Xijiao Airport, resulting in massive casualties.

Were there any fatalities in the 1979-03-14 Hawker Siddeley HS.121 Trident accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 192 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1979-03-14 involved a Hawker Siddeley HS.121 Trident, registration B-274, operated by CAAC - Civil Aviation Administration of China, at Beijing-Xijiao, China.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was attributed to the pilot-in-command's lack of sufficient training and familiarity with the aircraft model.

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