1956-11-24: Ilyushin II-12 (OK-DBP) — CSA Czech Airlines - Československé Státní Aerolinie — Eglisau, Switzerland

23 fatalitiesEglisau, SwitzerlandTakeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed into a field near Zurich-Kloten Airport during its night climb, resulting in the deaths of all 23 people on board.

What happened

During a nighttime departure from Zurich-Kloten Airport, an aircraft experienced a loss of control while in its initial climb phase. The plane descended into a field situated in Eglisau, approximately 12 kilometers north of the airfield. Upon striking the ground, the aircraft underwent complete disintegration. The impact was severe enough to create a crater measuring 10 meters wide and 3 meters deep.

There were 23 fatalities recorded following the accident, as all occupants on board perished in the crash.

Findings

Investigators were unable to establish a definitive reason for why the aircraft became uncontrollable during the ascent. The official investigation concluded that the exact cause of the loss of control could not be determined with certainty.

Probable cause

The specific reason for the loss of control during the climb remains undetermined.