28 fatalities

Fatal Mountain Strike During Approach at Managua Airport (152)

Bluefields, NicaraguaLanding (descent or approach)

On January 21, 1999, an Antonov AN-26 (registration 152) operated by Nicaraguayan Air Force - Fuerza Aérea - Ejercito de Nicaragua was involved in an aviation accident near Bluefields, Nicaragua during landing or approach. 28 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside near Managua Airport while on approach to Bluefields, killing all 28 occupants. The crew was holding due to runway congestion when the accident occurred.

Incident Overview

A commercial flight departed from Managua Airport at 0710 local time, bound for Bluefields. The aircraft was carrying a total of 28 individuals on board, consisting of 21 passengers and seven crew members. Among these occupants, 15 were identified as civilians.

Operational Context

During the approach phase to the destination airport, air traffic control issued instructions to the flight crew to enter a holding pattern. This directive was necessitated by another aircraft occupying the main runway, which prevented immediate landing clearance.

Accident Details

Shortly after receiving the holding instructions, the aircraft collided with the slope of a mountain situated approximately 6 kilometers from the airport perimeter. The impact resulted in the total loss of the aircraft and the death of all 28 people on board.