Aircraft destruction during descent to Cazombo

42 fatalities • Cazombo, Angola • Landing (descent or approach)

A flight traveling from Luena was struck by a surface-to-air missile, resulting in a fatal crash 40 km from Cazombo.

What happened

During an approach to Cazombo, an aircraft operating a route from Luena was targeted by a surface-to-air missile launched by UNITA rebels. The projectile impacted one of the engines during the descent phase of the flight. Following the engine strike, the crew attempted to perform an emergency landing.

The aircraft subsequently crashed approximately 40 km away from the destination airport. Upon impact, the airframe caught fire. The accident resulted in 42 fatalities and left six passengers injured.

Findings

Investigations concluded that the destruction of the aircraft type was caused by a direct hit from a surface-to-air missile during flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck and downed by a surface-to-air missile fired by rebel forces.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1989-07-23 Antonov AN-26 accident near Cazombo, Angola?

A flight traveling from Luena was struck by a surface-to-air missile, resulting in a fatal crash 40 km from Cazombo.

Were there any fatalities in the 1989-07-23 Antonov AN-26 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 42 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1989-07-23 involved a Antonov AN-26, operated by Angola Air Force - Força Aérea Nacional Angolana, at Cazombo, Angola.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was struck and downed by a surface-to-air missile fired by rebel forces.

Loading the flight search…