Aircraft crash near Leh during final approach

78 fatalities • Leh-Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, India • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed short of the runway threshold at Leh after experiencing technical difficulties, resulting in the deaths of all 77 people on board and one person on the ground.

What happened

During the final approach to Leh, the pilot communicated reports of mechanical issues as the aircraft began losing altitude. The flight path deviated significantly, leading the plane to strike a residential building before a massive explosion occurred. The impact took place less than 2 km from the runway threshold. The force of the collision caused the aircraft to disintegrate upon hitting the ground. There were 77 fatalities among the occupants of the plane, and one individual residing in the house was also killed during the accident.

Findings

Investigations into the crash identified a mechanical failure involving the wing's configuration. It was determined that an asymmetric flap deployment occurred while the aircraft was on its final approach. Specifically, when the crew attempted to extend the flaps, the components on the left wing moved into position, but the flaps on the right wing remained stuck at an incorrect angle. This imbalance caused the plane to become inverted, leading to the loss of control and subsequent impact.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered an inverted state and crashed due to asymmetric flap deployment during the final approach phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-11-19 Antonov AN-12 accident near Leh-Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, India?

An aircraft crashed short of the runway threshold at Leh after experiencing technical difficulties, resulting in the deaths of all 77 people on board and one person on the ground.

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-11-19 Antonov AN-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 78 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-11-19 involved a Antonov AN-12, registration L650, operated by Indian Air Force - Bharatiya Vayu Sena, at Leh-Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, India.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered an inverted state and crashed due to asymmetric flap deployment during the final approach phase.

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