On November 25, 2024, a DHL cargo aircraft crashed near Vilnius Airport in Lithuania, resulting in the death of one crew member. The Boeing 737-476(SF), operated by Swiftair on behalf of DHL, was en route from Leipzig, Germany, to Vilnius when it went down in the Liepkalnis area, approximately 1.5 kilometers short of the runway.
Incident Details
The aircraft, carrying four crew members, crashed at around 5:30 a.m. local time. Upon impact, it skidded into a two-story residential house, igniting a fire. Emergency responders evacuated 13 residents from the building, none of whom sustained injuries. However, one Spanish crew member was pronounced dead at the scene, while the remaining three crew members were hospitalized, with one in critical condition.
Investigation and Preliminary Findings
Lithuanian authorities, in collaboration with international experts from Spain, Germany, and the United States, have initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash. Both flight recorders have been recovered and are slated for analysis in Germany. Preliminary assessments suggest a technical malfunction as the likely cause, with no indications of sabotage or foul play. Acting Minister of National Defence Laurynas Kasčiūnas stated, “No signs indicating sabotage have been identified in the preliminary stages.”
Operational Impact
The crash temporarily disrupted operations at Vilnius Airport, leading to delays and the diversion of one incoming flight to Riga, Latvia. The runway was closed for an hour on November 26 to facilitate drone-based site examination by investigators. A Polish Beechcraft King Air 350 was deployed to inspect the airport’s navigational systems post-incident.
Aircraft Information
The involved aircraft, a Boeing 737-476(SF) registered as EC-MFE, was 31 years old—a typical age for cargo planes. It was powered by two CFM International CFM56-3C1 engines. Swiftair, based in Madrid, operated the flight under contract with DHL.
DHL expressed condolences and pledged full cooperation with the investigation. Boeing, the aircraft’s manufacturer, offered technical assistance. International aviation organizations, including IATA and EASA, extended sympathies to the victims’ families.
Context and Speculations
The incident has prompted discussions about potential links to prior security concerns, such as incendiary devices found on Western-bound cargo planes. However, officials have found no evidence connecting this crash to such events. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock remarked, “Authorities in Germany and Lithuania are examining all possibilities,” without making specific allegations.
Bottom Line
The crash of Swiftair Flight 5960 underscores the critical importance of stringent maintenance and operational protocols in aviation. As investigations proceed, the global aviation community remains focused on uncovering the exact cause to prevent future tragedies.
