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15 fatalities

Aircraft Crash in Heavy Fog at Lucapa (RA-11531)

Lucapa, AngolaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 12, 1997, an Antonov AN-12 (registration RA-11531) operated by Von Haaf Air was involved in an aviation accident near Lucapa, Angola during landing or approach. 15 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A four-engine aircraft crashed and burned during a third landing attempt at Lucapa in heavy fog after the crew failed to recognize insufficient altitude, killing all 15 occupants.

Incident Overview During a final approach to Lucapa in heavy fog, the captain of a four-engine aircraft was unable to establish visual contact with the runway and initiated a go-around. A second approach was abandoned a few minutes later. On the third attempt to land, the crew failed to realize that the aircraft's altitude was insufficient. The aircraft struck obstacles approximately 200 metres to the right of the runway, crashed, and burst into flames. All 15 occupants were killed in the accident. The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, operator, date, or exact location beyond Lucapa.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Mar 1997 Antonov AN-12 accident near Lucapa, Angola?

A four-engine aircraft crashed and burned during a third landing attempt at Lucapa in heavy fog after the crew failed to recognize insufficient altitude, killing all 15 occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 Mar 1997 Antonov AN-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 15 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Mar 1997 involved an Antonov AN-12, registration RA-11531, operated by Von Haaf Air, at Lucapa, Angola.

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