Engine failure and wing strike during takeoff

No fatalities • Nairobi-Wilson, Kenya • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a left engine failure during its initial climb, resulting in a runway excursion and injuries to all nine occupants.

What happened

Shortly after departing the runway, an aircraft entered its initial climb phase at an altitude of approximately 5 to 10 meters. During this period, the left engine experienced a sudden failure. This loss of power caused the aircraft to bank sharply toward the left side.

As the banking angle increased, the left wing made contact with the runway surface. The loss of control led to the aircraft crashing in the immediate vicinity of the runway, where it eventually came to a stop. There were nine injuries reported among the occupants, but no fatalities occurred during the accident.

Findings

The investigation determined that the primary factor was the failure of the left engine while the aircraft was at a very low altitude during the climb.

Probable cause

The failure of the left engine during the initial climb phase led to an uncontrolled bank and wing strike.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-03-08 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident near Nairobi-Wilson, Kenya?

An aircraft experienced a left engine failure during its initial climb, resulting in a runway excursion and injuries to all nine occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-03-08 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 1987-03-08 involved a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain, registration 5Y-AST, operated by Cooper Skybird Aircharters, at Nairobi-Wilson, Kenya.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the left engine during the initial climb phase led to an uncontrolled bank and wing strike.

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