Fatal aircraft accident near Managua Airport

28 fatalities • Bluefields, Nicaragua • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft traveling from Managua to Bluefields crashed into a mountainside during its approach, resulting in the loss of all 28 people on board.

What happened

On the morning of the accident, a flight departed from Managua Airport at 07:10 local time, destined for Bluefields. The aircraft was operating with a total of 28 people on board, consisting of seven crew members and 21 passengers.

During the approach phase of the flight, air traffic control directed the crew to enter a holding pattern. This instruction was issued because the primary runway was obstructed by another aircraft. While maneuvering, the aircraft type (unspecified in source) impacted a mountain slope situated approximately 6 km from the airport. The impact resulted in 28 fatalities, with no survivors reported among the passengers or crew.

Findings

  • The flight was forced into a holding pattern due to runway congestion.
  • The collision occurred during the approach phase of the flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a mountain slope while performing a holding pattern necessitated by runway obstruction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-01-21 Antonov AN-26 accident near Bluefields, Nicaragua?

An aircraft traveling from Managua to Bluefields crashed into a mountainside during its approach, resulting in the loss of all 28 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1999-01-21 Antonov AN-26 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 28 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-01-21 involved a Antonov AN-26, registration 152, operated by Nicaraguayan Air Force - Fuerza Aérea - Ejercito de Nicaragua, at Bluefields, Nicaragua.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck a mountain slope while performing a holding pattern necessitated by runway obstruction.

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