1953-03-18: Junkers JU.52 — Kasernierte Volkspolizei (KVP) — Cottbus-Drewitz, Germany

11 fatalitiesCottbus-Drewitz, GermanyTakeoff (climb)

An aircraft with three engines crashed during its initial climb from Cottbus-Drewitz Airport, resulting in the deaths of all 11 people on board.

What happened

During a flight departing from Cottbus-Drewitz Airport, a three-engine aircraft experienced a catastrophic loss of control. The incident occurred during the climb phase, shortly after the departure sequence had commenced. As the aircraft gained altitude, it became unstable and subsequently crashed, resulting in a large fire at the impact site.

There were 11 fatalities recorded in the accident, as every person on board perished during the event. No survivors were reported from the wreckage.

Findings

Following the crash, investigations focused on the period immediately following takeoff. The primary factor identified was that the aircraft went out of control while ascending, leading to the impact and subsequent fire.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost control during the climb phase shortly after departing the airport.