31 fatalities

31 Killed as Aircraft Strikes Sand Dune During Sandstorm Approach to Aswan Airport

Aswan, EgyptLanding (descent or approach)

On October 18, 1963, an Antonov AN-12 operated by Soviet Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily CCCP was involved in an aviation accident near Aswan, Egypt during landing or approach. 31 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 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

While on final approach to Aswan Airport in poor visibility from a sandstorm, the captain descended to regain visual contact. The aircraft struck a sand dune three kilometers short of the runway and burned, killing all 31 aboard.

Accident Sequence

On final approach to Aswan Airport, the crew encountered poor visibility caused by a sandstorm. The captain decided to reduce altitude in an attempt to establish visual contact with the ground. While descending, the aircraft struck a sand dune and crashed in flames approximately three kilometers short of the runway threshold. The aircraft was totally destroyed.

Victims

All 31 occupants of the aircraft were killed in the accident. Among them were 25 Egyptian soldiers and six Russian crew members. No other casualties were reported.

Investigation

Investigators from the relevant authorities examined the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the accident. The sequence of events leading to the collision with the sand dune was documented, but no probable cause has been officially stated in the available source material.