Bird strike causes crash landing at Heglig Airport

No fatalities • Heglig, Sudan • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft sustained significant damage after colliding with birds during its final approach to Heglig Airport, resulting in a crash landing short of the runway.

What happened

During the final approach phase to Heglig Airport, the aircraft encountered a flock of birds approaching from the right side. The collision occurred while the plane was at an altitude of approximately 60 feet. Following the impact, the number four engine experienced a failure, which caused the aircraft to roll toward the right and lose necessary altitude.

The aircraft subsequently struck the ground before reaching the runway threshold. The force of the impact caused the undercarriage to be torn from the airframe, leading to a crash landing. Although the aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss, all four crew members managed to exit the wreckage without any injuries.

Findings

  • The primary cause of the engine failure and subsequent loss of control was a bird strike involving the number four engine during the approach to the airport.

Probable cause

A bird strike during the final approach phase led to the failure of the number four engine and subsequent loss of altitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-04-30 Antonov AN-12 accident near Heglig, Sudan?

An aircraft sustained significant damage after colliding with birds during its final approach to Heglig Airport, resulting in a crash landing short of the runway.

Were there any fatalities in the 2002-04-30 Antonov AN-12 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-04-30 involved a Antonov AN-12, registration ST-AQP, operated by Aerovista, at Heglig, Sudan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A bird strike during the final approach phase led to the failure of the number four engine and subsequent loss of altitude.

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