3 fatalities

Fatal aircraft crash following engine failure during takeoff (TJ-AFO)

Douala, CameroonTakeoff (climb)

On June 24, 1980, a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain (registration TJ-AFO) operated by Air Affaires Afrique was involved in an aviation accident near Douala, Cameroon during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by the failure of one engine during the takeoff rotation phase. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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

A twin-engine airplane crashed near the runway shortly after liftoff, resulting in the deaths of all three people on board.

What happened

During the initial climb phase of flight, a twin engine airplane experienced a critical loss of lift and stalled. The accident occurred immediately following rotation, as the aircraft departed from the runway environment.

Following the stall, the plane impacted the ground in the vicinity of the runway. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were no survivors among the occupants; the crash resulted in three fatalities.

Findings

Official investigations into the accident suggest that the primary factor leading to the loss of control was an engine failure occurring just after the aircraft reached rotation speed.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the failure of one engine during the takeoff rotation phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Jun 1980 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident near Douala, Cameroon?

A twin-engine airplane crashed near the runway shortly after liftoff, resulting in the deaths of all three people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Jun 1980 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Jun 1980 involved a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain, registration TJ-AFO, operated by Air Affaires Afrique, at Douala, Cameroon.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the failure of one engine during the takeoff rotation phase.