Air Rhodesia

Safety profile and incident history for Air Rhodesia.

Safety Score

4.6/10

Total Incidents

2

Total Fatalities

107

Recent Incidents

February 12, 1979 59 Fatalities

Vickers Viscount

Kariba Mashonaland West

Shortly after takeoff from Kariba Airport, while climbing, the airplane was struck by two SAM-7 missiles. Out of control, it plunged into the ground and crashed in a huge explosion few km from the airport. The aircraft was totally destroyed and all 59 occupants were killed.

September 3, 1978 48 Fatalities

Vickers Viscount

Kariba Mashonaland West

The four engine aircraft departed Kariba Airport at 1710LT bound for Salisbury. While climbing, the crew declared an emergency after a SAM-7 missile struck the right wing. With both right engines out of service, the pilots reduced the altitude and attempted an emergency landing when the aircraft crashed in the Whamira Hills, about 35 km southeast of Kariba. The aircraft disintegrated on impact and 38 occupants were killed while 18 other survived. Members of the Zimbabwe People's Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA) arrived quickly on the scene and killed 10 of the 18 survivors. A day later, rescuers arrived at the crash site and were able to evacuate eight survivors.

Airline Information

Country of Origin

Zimbabwe

Risk Level

Elevated Risk

Common Aircraft in Incidents

Vickers Viscount2