1991-02-22: Antonov AN-26 — Angola Air Force - Força Aérea Nacional Angolana — Cazombo, Angola

47 fatalitiesCazombo, AngolaLanding (descent or approach)

An aircraft approaching Cazombo was struck by a surface-to-air missile fired by UNITA rebels, resulting in the deaths of all 43 people on board.

What happened

While conducting an approach to Cazombo Airport, the aircraft was targeted and struck by a Stinger surface-to-air missile. The projectile hit the plane, causing it to crash in the vicinity of the airport, just a few kilometers away from the runway. The incident occurred during the final phase of the flight as the crew attempted to land.

Findings

Official investigations confirmed that the aircraft was shot down by a Stinger surface-to-air missile launched by UNITA rebels. This hostile action resulted in the immediate death of all 43 occupants on board, including 37 civilians and the flight crew. No survivors were reported from the crash site.

Probable cause

The aircraft was shot down by a Stinger surface-to-air missile fired by UNITA rebels during approach to Cazombo Airport.