Aircraft accident involving fire and loss of control during final approach

5 fatalities • Mogadishu, Somalia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a cabin floor fire and subsequent loss of control during its final approach, resulting in a heavy nose-first landing and five fatalities.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight, a fire broke out beneath the cabin floor of the aircraft. This emergency led to the crew experiencing a total loss of control over the plane. Despite these critical issues, the aircraft maintained its approach path and struck runway 24 at a speed of 130 knots with a heavy nose-first impact.

The force of the landing caused the nose gear to detach from the airframe. Following the initial impact, the aircraft slid for approximately 900 meters along the runway before eventually coming to a stop while engulfed in flames. The accident resulted in five fatalities, all of whom were children remaining inside the cabin, and 25 injuries among the occupants.

Findings

Investigations into the incident identified an intense fire located under the floorboards near row 6 as a primary factor. It is concluded that this fire likely caused the loss of flight control systems during the approach.

Probable cause

An intense fire beneath the cabin floor likely incapacitated the aircraft's flight controls.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-05-06 Vickers Viscount accident near Mogadishu, Somalia?

An aircraft experienced a cabin floor fire and subsequent loss of control during its final approach, resulting in a heavy nose-first landing and five fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-05-06 Vickers Viscount accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-05-06 involved a Vickers Viscount, registration 6O-AAJ, operated by Somali Airlines, at Mogadishu, Somalia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An intense fire beneath the cabin floor likely incapacitated the aircraft's flight controls.

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