Aircraft Overrun into Sobat River during Approach to Nasir

27 fatalities • Nasir, South Sudan • Landing (descent or approach)

A Sudanese Government flight crashed into the Sobat River after overrunning the runway at Nasir, resulting in 27 fatalities.

What happened

On a scheduled flight from Khartoum to Nasir, which included a stopover in Malakal, an aircraft operated for the Sudanese Government experienced a fatal accident during its arrival. The flight, identified as ZY001, was operating under challenging weather conditions characterized by low visibility.

As the crew performed the approach, they failed to maintain the necessary position on the runway, resulting in the aircraft type landing significantly further down the runway than intended. This error drastically decreased the amount of runway remaining for deceleration. Consequently, the aircraft was unable to come to a complete stop before the end of the pavement. The aircraft overran the runway and plunged into the nearby Sobat River.

The accident resulted in a total of 27 fatalities, including three crew members and 24 passengers. Additionally, 30 injuries were reported among the other occupants on board.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the primary factor was an incorrect approach configuration by the flight crew, which led to a landing position that left insufficient distance for stopping. Adverse weather and poor visibility were also identified as contributing elements to the accident.

Probable cause

The crew's improper approach configuration caused the aircraft to land too far down the runway, leaving inadequate distance to stop before the overrun.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-02-12 Antonov AN-32 accident near Nasir, South Sudan?

A Sudanese Government flight crashed into the Sobat River after overrunning the runway at Nasir, resulting in 27 fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1998-02-12 Antonov AN-32 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 27 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-02-12 involved a Antonov AN-32, registration 7744, operated by Sudanese Air Force - Al Quwwat al-Jawwiya As-Sudaniya, at Nasir, South Sudan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew's improper approach configuration caused the aircraft to land too far down the runway, leaving inadequate distance to stop before the overrun.

Loading the flight search…