Aircraft crash on Mt Polica near Zawoja

53 fatalities • Zawoja, Poland • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed in a wooded area of the Babia Gora Mountain Range during its descent to Kraków-Balice Airport, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During an approach to Kraków-Balice Airport, an aircraft flying at an altitude of 1,200 meters impacted trees and crashed within a thick forest on Mt Polica. The incident occurred in the Babia Gora Mountain Range, situated near Zawoja. Following the impact, search efforts located the wreckage approximately 150 meters below the mountain summit several hours later. There were 53 fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft.

Findings

At the time of the accident, the crew was navigating through severe weather characterized by heavy snowfall and significantly reduced visibility. These environmental conditions prevented the crew from accurately identifying the mountain terrain. Furthermore, investigations indicated that the flight was operating slightly off its intended course during the descent phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck terrain due to navigational errors caused by heavy snow and limited visibility.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-04-02 Antonov AN-24 accident near Zawoja, Poland?

An aircraft crashed in a wooded area of the Babia Gora Mountain Range during its descent to Kraków-Balice Airport, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-04-02 Antonov AN-24 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 53 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1969-04-02 involved a Antonov AN-24, registration SP-LTF, operated by LOT Polish Airlines - Polskie Linie Lotnicze, at Zawoja, Poland.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck terrain due to navigational errors caused by heavy snow and limited visibility.

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