Aircraft destruction following mortar strike at Kandahar Airport

3 fatalities • Kandahar, Afghanistan • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft was destroyed by fire and explosions after being struck by a mortar shell during its arrival at Kandahar Airport.

What happened

Upon completing its landing at Kandahar Airport, a four-engine aircraft was impacted by a mortar shell. The force of the strike caused the aircraft to lose control, resulting in it veering off the runway. During this uncontrolled movement, the plane collided with a structure used for radio installations.

The impact and subsequent fire led to several explosions, as the aircraft was transporting a cargo of ammunition at the time of the incident. The sequence of events resulted in three fatalities and three injuries among the crew members on board.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the loss of the aircraft was the direct hit from a mortar shell immediately following landing.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck by a mortar shell during its landing phase at the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-07-12 Antonov AN-12 accident near Kandahar, Afghanistan?

A four-engine aircraft was destroyed by fire and explosions after being struck by a mortar shell during its arrival at Kandahar Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-07-12 Antonov AN-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-07-12 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?

The aircraft was struck by a mortar shell during its landing phase at the airport.

Loading the flight search…