Aircraft and Cargo
The aircraft was dispatched from Berlin, Germany, to Luanda, Angola, transporting a load of weapons and ammunition destined for ZAPU (Zimbabwe African People's Union) militants based in Lusaka, Rhodesia. The cargo had arrived from East Germany by boat and was subsequently transferred onto the airplane.
Takeoff and Engine Failure
During the takeoff roll on runway 23, at a speed of 268 km/h, engine number 2 failed. The captain initially decided to continue the takeoff but then changed his mind and initiated an emergency braking maneuver in an attempt to abort the takeoff.
Overrun and Collision
The aircraft was unable to stop within the remaining runway distance. It overran the runway, collided with the localizer antenna, and crashed in flames. The aircraft was totally destroyed. All 10 occupants, including the crew, were killed.
Crew
The crew consisted of pilot Dieter Hartmann, pilot Jochen Wilsdorf, navigator Horst Umlauft, and flight engineer Frank-Rolf John.
Probable Cause
Investigations determined that engine number 2 failed 56 seconds after the crew began the takeoff procedure, at a speed of 268 km/h, which was well above the V1 speed of 222 km/h. The captain initially decided to continue the takeoff but eventually aborted and initiated emergency braking. The remaining distance was insufficient to stop the aircraft.