Stinger missile strike causes crash of aircraft near Kabul

1 fatality • Kabul, Afghanistan • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft climbing from Kabul Airport was destroyed after being struck by a surface-to-air missile, resulting in one fatality among the crew.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Kabul Airport, the aircraft was targeted by a Stinger missile. The projectile impacted the left engine, causing significant damage to the propulsion system. As the situation became untenable, all six members of the crew initiated emergency egress procedures.

While the aircraft ultimately crashed and was completely destroyed upon impact, the crew managed to bail out of the plane. Of the six individuals on board, five occupants escaped without injury. However, the captain sustained fatal injuries because his parachute failed to deploy correctly during the descent.

Findings

Investigations determined that the primary factor in the destruction of the aircraft was the direct hit from a Stinger missile during the ascent.

Probable cause

The aircraft was downed by a surface-to-air missile strike on the left engine.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-12-21 Antonov AN-26 accident near Kabul, Afghanistan?

An aircraft climbing from Kabul Airport was destroyed after being struck by a surface-to-air missile, resulting in one fatality among the crew.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-12-21 Antonov AN-26 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-12-21 involved a Antonov AN-26, operated by Soviet Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily CCCP, at Kabul, Afghanistan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was downed by a surface-to-air missile strike on the left engine.

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