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Aircraft Destroyed by Two SAM-7 Missiles After Takeoff from Kariba Airport, 59 Killed (VP-YND)

Kariba, ZimbabweTakeoff (climb)

On February 12, 1979, a Vickers Viscount (registration VP-YND) operated by Air Rhodesia was involved in an aviation accident near Kariba, Zimbabwe during takeoff. 59 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Shut down by two SAM-7 missiles from the Zimbabwe People's Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA) guerrilla. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after takeoff from Kariba Airport, an airplane was struck by two SAM-7 missiles, causing it to crash and explode. All 59 occupants were killed. The probable cause was a missile attack by ZIPRA guerrillas.

Incident Description

An airplane was destroyed shortly after departing from Kariba Airport. While climbing, the aircraft was hit by two SAM-7 missiles. The impact caused the airplane to lose control, plunge into the ground, and explode in a large fireball several kilometers from the airport. The aircraft was completely destroyed in the crash and subsequent explosion.

Casualties

All 59 occupants on board were killed in the accident.

Probable Cause

According to official findings, the accident was caused by the airplane being shot down by two SAM-7 missiles launched by members of the Zimbabwe People's Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA) guerrilla group.

Related events

Same operator

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