Aircraft shot down near Kandahar Airport

14 fatalities • Kandahar, Afghanistan • Takeoff (climb)

A four-engine aircraft was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile shortly after departing from Kandahar Airport, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Kandahar Airport, a four-engine aircraft was struck by a projectile. The impact of a surface-to-air missile caused the plane to crash approximately 22 km away from the airfield. Upon hitting the ground, the wreckage ignited, resulting in a large fire.

There were 14 fatalities recorded in the accident, as all individuals on board perished during the event. No survivors were identified at the crash site.

Findings

Official 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 struck and downed by a surface-to-air missile during its climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1985-07-11 Antonov AN-12 accident near Kandahar, Afghanistan?

A four-engine aircraft was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile shortly after departing from Kandahar Airport, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1985-07-11 Antonov AN-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 14 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1985-07-11 involved a Antonov AN-12, operated by Soviet Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily CCCP, at Kandahar, Afghanistan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?