Surface-to-air missile strike causes fatal crash near Addis Ababa

73 fatalities • Addis Ababa-Bole, Ethiopia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft carrying 73 military personnel crashed shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa-Bole Airport following a missile strike.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Addis Ababa-Bole Airport, the aircraft was struck by a surface-to-air missile. The impact caused the plane to crash, resulting in no survivors among those on board.

There were 73 fatalities recorded in the accident. The passengers and crew consisted of various military personnel, specifically including 24 soldiers from Libya, 24 soldiers from Cuba, and 25 soldiers from Ethiopia.

Findings

Investigations concluded that the destruction of the aircraft was the direct result of being shot down by a surface-to-air missile during its ascent.

Probable cause

The aircraft was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile strike during its climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1982-01-14 Antonov AN-12 accident near Addis Ababa-Bole, Ethiopia?

An aircraft carrying 73 military personnel crashed shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa-Bole Airport following a missile strike.

Were there any fatalities in the 1982-01-14 Antonov AN-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 73 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1982-01-14 involved a Antonov AN-12, operated by Ethiopian Air Force - Ye Ityopya Ayer Hayl, at Addis Ababa-Bole, Ethiopia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile strike during its climb.

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