36 fatalities

1987-02-09: Antonov AN-26 — Afghan Republican Air Force - Afghan Hanai Qurah — Khost, Afghanistan

Khost, AfghanistanTakeoff (climb)

On February 9, 1987, an Antonov AN-26 operated by Afghan Republican Air Force - Afghan Hanai Qurah was involved in an aviation accident near Khost, Afghanistan during takeoff. 36 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was destroyed after being struck by a surface-to-air missile during its climb. 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 1781216675Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed in an open field shortly after takeoff from Khost Airport after being struck by a surface-to-air missile, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Khost Airport, the aircraft was intercepted by a Stinger missile. The impact of the projectile caused the plane to lose control and descend into an open field. Upon hitting the ground, the airframe ignited, resulting in a large-scale fire.

There were 36 fatalities recorded in the accident, including several women and children who were on board at the time of the strike. No survivors were reported from the wreckage.

Findings

Investigations into the crash concluded that the primary factor leading to the destruction of the aircraft was its interception by a Stinger missile during its ascent.

Probable cause

The aircraft was destroyed after being struck by a surface-to-air missile during its climb.