6 fatalities

Aircraft accident near Vila Pery following takeoff difficulties (4617)

Chimoio, MozambiqueTakeoff (climb)

On February 5, 1963, a Lockheed P-2 Harpoon (registration 4617) operated by Portuguese Air Force - Força Aerea Portuguesa (1952-) was involved in an aviation accident near Chimoio, Mozambique during takeoff. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck power cables due to an inability to gain sufficient altitude following 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 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed near Vila Pery after encountering issues maintaining altitude shortly after departing Chimoio Airport.

What happened

During a flight departing from Chimoio Airport, a twin engine aircraft experienced significant trouble ascending. Shortly after the departure phase, the plane struggled to gain sufficient altitude and subsequently collided with power cables. The impact resulted in the aircraft crashing in an area located northeast of the airfield, near Vila Pery.

As a result of the accident, there were six fatalities among the passengers. Additionally, the crash left seven other occupants injured.

Findings

  • The aircraft was unable to maintain its climb profile after takeoff.
  • An encounter with overhead power lines was the primary factor leading to the crash near the airfield.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck power cables due to an inability to gain sufficient altitude following takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Feb 1963 Lockheed P-2 Harpoon accident near Chimoio, Mozambique?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed near Vila Pery after encountering issues maintaining altitude shortly after departing Chimoio Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Feb 1963 Lockheed P-2 Harpoon accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Feb 1963 involved a Lockheed P-2 Harpoon, registration 4617, operated by Portuguese Air Force - Força Aerea Portuguesa (1952-), at Chimoio, Mozambique.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck power cables due to an inability to gain sufficient altitude following takeoff.