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2 fatalities

Fatal aircraft accident during demonstration flight (N57TA)

Waterkloof AFB, South AfricaFlight

On November 13, 1981, a Learjet 55 Longhorn (registration N57TA) operated by Gates Learjet Aircraft Corporation was involved in an aviation accident near Waterkloof AFB, South Africa in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft entered an unrecoverable dive following a loss of control during a barrel roll maneuver. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A two-person crew was killed when an aircraft entered an uncontrolled dive during a barrel roll maneuver during a local demonstration flight.

What happened

During a local flight intended to demonstrate the capabilities of the aircraft to prospective clients, a fatal accident occurred near an airbase. The flight was being conducted by a crew of two. Shortly after departing, the aircraft reached an altitude of 690 feet while maintaining a speed of 155 knots.

At this stage of the flight, the crew attempted to perform a barrel roll maneuver. During the execution of this maneuver, the pilots lost control of the aircraft type. This loss of control resulted in the plane pitching into a steep dive toward the terrain. The impact with the ground occurred in the vicinity of the airbase, resulting in two fatalities.

Findings

  • The accident took place during an aerial demonstration for potential customers.
  • The sequence of events began during the execution of a high-performance maneuver.
  • Loss of control during the barrel roll led to the subsequent impact with the ground.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered an unrecoverable dive following a loss of control during a barrel roll maneuver.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Nov 1981 Learjet 55 Longhorn accident near Waterkloof AFB, South Africa?

A two-person crew was killed when an aircraft entered an uncontrolled dive during a barrel roll maneuver during a local demonstration flight.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Nov 1981 Learjet 55 Longhorn accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Nov 1981 involved a Learjet 55 Longhorn, registration N57TA, operated by Gates Learjet Aircraft Corporation, at Waterkloof AFB, South Africa.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered an unrecoverable dive following a loss of control during a barrel roll maneuver.

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