7 fatalities

1995-10-22: Transall C-160 (50+43) — German Air Force - Deutsche Luftwaffe — Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Ponta Delgada, PortugalTakeoff (climb)

On October 22, 1995, a Transall C-160 (registration 50+43) operated by German Air Force - Deutsche Luftwaffe was involved in an aviation accident near Ponta Delgada, Portugal during takeoff. 7 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was reported that one of the engine failed after Vr but before rotation. It was apparently too late for the crew to abort the takeoff procedure. Due to insufficient power, the aircraft was unable to gain height. 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)Primary reportUpdated 1781207620Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft collided with power lines, stalled, and crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Ponta Delgada-Nordela Airport, killing all seven crew members. A reported engine failure during takeoff was cited as probable cause.

Accident

On an unspecified date, a flight departed from Ponta Delgada-Nordela Airport. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced difficulties in gaining altitude. It then collided with power lines, entered a stall, and crashed into the sea a few dozen meters from the shore. The accident resulted in the deaths of all seven crew members on board.

Investigation and Probable Cause

The official investigation into the accident reported that one of the engines failed after the aircraft reached decision speed (Vr) but before rotation. This failure occurred too late for the crew to abort the takeoff procedure. The resulting insufficient power meant the aircraft was unable to gain sufficient height to clear obstacles, leading to the collision with power lines and subsequent stall and impact with the sea. The probable cause was determined to be the engine failure after Vr, which prevented a safe takeoff and climb.