No fatalities

Bird Strike Causes Engine Failure and Crash Landing at Heglig Airport (ST-AQP)

Heglig, SudanLanding (descent or approach)

On April 30, 2002, an Antonov AN-12 (registration ST-AQP) operated by Aerovista was involved in an aviation accident near Heglig, Sudan during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control on final approach after the failure of the engine n°4 following a bird strike. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During final approach to Heglig Airport, a bird strike caused engine failure, leading to loss of control and a crash landing short of the runway. All four crew escaped uninjured.

Incident Overview

On final approach to Heglig Airport, at an altitude of approximately 60 feet, the aircraft encountered a flock of birds approaching from the right side. The collision resulted in the failure of engine number 4. Subsequently, the aircraft began a rolling motion to the right, lost altitude, and struck the ground before reaching the runway threshold.

Impact and Damage

Upon impact, the landing gear was torn off, and the aircraft crash landed. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair. All four crew members aboard escaped without injury.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a loss of control during final approach following the failure of engine number 4 due to a bird strike.

Frequently asked questions

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

During final approach to Heglig Airport, a bird strike caused engine failure, leading to loss of control and a crash landing short of the runway. All four crew escaped uninjured.

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

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

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

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Loss of control on final approach after the failure of the engine n°4 following a bird strike.