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Aircraft Struck by Surface-to-Air Missile After Takeoff from Luena (CCCP-11121)

Luena, AngolaFlight

On April 26, 1993, an Antonov AN-12 (registration CCCP-11121) operated by Syktyvkar Avia was involved in an aviation accident near Luena, Angola in flight. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Shot down by a surface-to-air missile. 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

Minutes after takeoff from Luena, a SAM missile hit engine one. The crew attempted an emergency landing but crashed in an open field. All seven occupants evacuated; one pilot killed by a landmine, another seriously injured.

Incident

Minutes after taking off from Luena, while cruising at flight level 160, the aircraft was hit by a surface-to-air missile (SAM) that struck engine number one. In response, the crew reduced altitude and attempted an emergency landing. The aircraft subsequently crashed in an open field situated in the region of Luena and erupted into flames. The flight was en route to Catumbela, transporting various goods for the World Food Program.

Casualties

All seven people on board evacuated the cabin after the crash. One pilot was killed after walking onto a landmine, and another pilot was seriously injured.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause states that the aircraft was shot down by a surface-to-air missile.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Apr 1993 Antonov AN-12 accident near Luena, Angola?

Minutes after takeoff from Luena, a SAM missile hit engine one. The crew attempted an emergency landing but crashed in an open field. All seven occupants evacuated; one pilot killed by a landmine, another seriously injured.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Apr 1993 Antonov AN-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Apr 1993 involved an Antonov AN-12, registration CCCP-11121, operated by Syktyvkar Avia, at Luena, Angola.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Shot down by a surface-to-air missile.

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