8 fatalities

Aircraft crash into sea shortly after takeoff from Denpasar (PK-AFO)

Denpasar-I Gusti Ngurah Rai, IndonesiaTakeoff (climb)

On January 22, 1940, a Lockheed 14 Super Electra (registration PK-AFO) operated by KNILM - Koninklijke Nederlandse Indies Luchtvaart Maatschappij was involved in an aviation accident near Denpasar-I Gusti Ngurah Rai, Indonesia during takeoff. 8 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control during a left turn in the initial climb phase after takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-08-27Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft lost control during initial climb and crashed into the sea near Denpasar, resulting in eight fatalities and one serious injury.

What happened

Shortly after departing Denpasar Airport, the aircraft was climbing to an altitude of approximately 100 metres when the pilot initiated a left turn. During this maneuver, control of the aircraft was lost, causing it to plunge into the sea close to the beach. The impact with the water surface resulted in the complete destruction of the airframe.

Findings

The accident occurred during the initial climb phase following takeoff. Of the nine individuals on board, eight people were killed and one engineer sustained serious injuries. The crew consisted of a pilot, a co-pilot, an engineer, and a radio operator, while five passengers were also aboard.

Probable cause

Loss of control during a left turn in the initial climb phase after takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Jan 1940 Lockheed 14 Super Electra accident near Denpasar-I Gusti Ngurah Rai, Indonesia?

An aircraft lost control during initial climb and crashed into the sea near Denpasar, resulting in eight fatalities and one serious injury.

Were there any fatalities in the 22 Jan 1940 Lockheed 14 Super Electra accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 8 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Jan 1940 involved a Lockheed 14 Super Electra, registration PK-AFO, operated by KNILM - Koninklijke Nederlandse Indies Luchtvaart Maatschappij, at Denpasar-I Gusti Ngurah Rai, Indonesia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Loss of control during a left turn in the initial climb phase after takeoff.