Engine failure during takeoff rotation leads to aircraft accident

No fatalities • Johannesburg-Rand, South Africa • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft carrying cargo to Namibia crashed after experiencing a loss of power in one engine during the takeoff rotation phase.

What happened

During the early morning hours of the accident, an aircraft was prepared for a flight carrying cargo destined for Namibia. As the pilot initiated the takeoff roll and reached the point of rotation, the right-hand engine experienced a sudden loss of power.

In an effort to stop the aircraft, the pilot attempted to abort the takeoff. During this maneuver, the aircraft lost directional control and skidded past the end of the runway. The aircraft subsequently careened down an embankment, resulting in a crash. A fire broke out following the impact, which led to the total destruction of the aircraft.

Findings

  • The incident involved a loss of power in the right-hand engine at the moment of rotation.
  • The pilot and one passenger survived the event, sustaining only minor injuries.
  • The aircraft was destroyed by fire following the excursion from the runway.

Probable cause

A loss of power in the right-hand engine during the takeoff rotation phase caused the pilot to abort the takeoff, leading to a runway excursion and subsequent crash.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-10-21 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident near Johannesburg-Rand, South Africa?

An aircraft carrying cargo to Namibia crashed after experiencing a loss of power in one engine during the takeoff rotation phase.

Were there any fatalities in the 1998-10-21 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-10-21 involved a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain, registration ZS-NHM, operated by Boma Helicopters, at Johannesburg-Rand, South Africa.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A loss of power in the right-hand engine during the takeoff rotation phase caused the pilot to abort the takeoff, leading to a runway excursion and subsequent crash.

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