Aircraft destruction near Kandahar Airport

52 fatalities • Kandahar, Afghanistan • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile during its initial climb following departure from Kandahar Airport, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During the takeoff phase from Kandahar Airport, an unidentified aircraft was targeted and struck by a surface-to-air missile. The incident occurred while the plane was ascending to an altitude of 3,800 feet. Following the impact, the aircraft became uncontrollable and descended rapidly, eventually crashing approximately 18 km west of the airfield. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe.

All 52 occupants on board perished in the accident. There were no survivors recovered from the crash site.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary reason for the loss of the aircraft was that it was shot down by a surface-to-air missile shortly after departing the airport.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck and downed by a surface-to-air missile during its climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1985-09-04 Antonov AN-26 accident near Kandahar, Afghanistan?

An aircraft was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile during its initial climb following departure from Kandahar Airport, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1985-09-04 Antonov AN-26 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 52 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1985-09-04 involved a Antonov AN-26, registration YA-BAM, operated by Ariana Afghan Airlines, at Kandahar, Afghanistan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?