Fatal aircraft crash during approach to Lucapa

15 fatalities • Lucapa, Angola • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft crashed and caught fire during a third landing attempt at Lucapa following heavy fog and previous aborted approaches.

What happened

During a series of landing attempts at Lucapa, an aircraft experienced a series of aborted approaches due to poor visibility. While performing the initial final approach, the captain encountered heavy fog which prevented visual contact with the runway, leading to a decision to execute a go-around. A subsequent attempt to land a few minutes later was also abandoned.

During a third attempt to land, the aircraft struck obstacles located approximately 200 metres to the right of the runway. The impact caused the plane to crash and subsequently burst into flames. There were 15 fatalities among the occupants of the four-engine aircraft.

Findings

Investigations into the accident indicate that the crew failed to maintain sufficient altitude during the third approach attempt, resulting in the collision with obstacles.

Probable cause

The crew failed to recognize that the aircraft was at an insufficient altitude during the third landing attempt in heavy fog.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-03-12 Antonov AN-12 accident near Lucapa, Angola?

A four-engine aircraft crashed and caught fire during a third landing attempt at Lucapa following heavy fog and previous aborted approaches.

Were there any fatalities in the 1997-03-12 Antonov AN-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 15 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-03-12 involved a Antonov AN-12, registration RA-11531, operated by Von Haaf Air, at Lucapa, Angola.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew failed to recognize that the aircraft was at an insufficient altitude during the third landing attempt in heavy fog.

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