No fatalities

Emergency Landing and Fire Following Engine Failure Near Cotonou (OO-CAK)

Kouandé, BeninFlight

On December 14, 1945, a Lockheed C-60 LodeStar (registration OO-CAK) operated by SABENA - Société Anonyme Belge d'Exploitation de la Navigation Aérienne was involved in an aviation accident near Kouandé, Benin in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine problems. 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 2026-08-25Data APIEditorial standards

Aircraft made an emergency landing in a field west of Cotonou after engine issues shortly after takeoff. The plane was destroyed by fire, but all occupants evacuated safely without injury.

What happened

Shortly after departing from Cotonou, the flight crew experienced significant technical difficulties with the aircraft's powerplant. Due to these mechanical issues, the decision was made to execute an emergency landing as soon as possible. The aircraft touched down in a field situated in Kouandé, which is located to the west of Cotonou. Upon impact and subsequent ground contact, the airframe was completely destroyed by fire. Despite the severity of the crash and the resulting destruction of the vehicle, all individuals on board managed to evacuate the wreckage successfully. No injuries were reported among the occupants.

Findings

The official investigation identified engine problems as the primary factor leading to the incident. These mechanical failures necessitated the immediate diversion from the flight path and the subsequent emergency landing procedure.

Probable cause

Engine problems

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Dec 1945 Lockheed C-60 LodeStar accident near Kouandé, Benin?

Aircraft made an emergency landing in a field west of Cotonou after engine issues shortly after takeoff. The plane was destroyed by fire, but all occupants evacuated safely without injury.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Dec 1945 Lockheed C-60 LodeStar accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Dec 1945 involved a Lockheed C-60 LodeStar, registration OO-CAK, operated by SABENA - Société Anonyme Belge d'Exploitation de la Navigation Aérienne, at Kouandé, Benin.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine problems