No fatalities

Aircraft crash near Decimomannu AFB following engine failure (MM22002)

Decimomannu AFB, ItalyTakeoff (climb)

On October 20, 1942, a Piaggio P.108 (registration MM22002) operated by Regia Aeronautica was involved in an aviation accident near Decimomannu AFB, Italy during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during 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 2026-08-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Decimomannu Air Force Base in Sardinia due to an engine failure, resulting in injuries to all seven crew members.

What happened

The incident occurred during a flight departing Decimomannu AFB in Sardinia, with the destination being Gibraltar. Immediately after liftoff, one of the aircraft's engines ceased functioning. This mechanical issue led to a loss of lift, causing the plane to stall and descend rapidly toward the ground. The aircraft impacted the terrain near the runway, sustaining damage that rendered it beyond repair. All seven individuals on board were injured in the crash.

Findings

The official investigation identified the primary factor behind the accident as an engine failure occurring during the takeoff phase.

Probable cause

Engine failure during takeoff