Aircraft destruction during approach to Techamutete Airport

29 fatalities • Techamutete, Angola • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed and was destroyed after being struck by a surface-to-air missile while approaching Techamutete Airport, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

While performing its final approach to the runway at Techamutete Airport, the aircraft was struck by a SAM-7 surface-to-air missile. The impact triggered a massive explosion, causing the plane to crash several hundred meters before reaching the landing strip. The wreckage of the aircraft was completely destroyed upon impact.

There were 29 fatalities in the accident, as there were no survivors among the occupants. Among those killed was a high-ranking Cuban government official serving as the deputy minister for Armament.

Findings

Investigations concluded that the destruction of the aircraft was the result of friendly fire. Specifically, Cuban military personnel stationed in the vicinity of Techamutete Airport mistakenly identified the plane as an enemy aircraft and engaged it with a missile.

Probable cause

The aircraft was accidentally targeted and shot down by nearby Cuban soldiers who misidentified it as hostile.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1988-04-27 Antonov AN-26 accident near Techamutete, Angola?

An aircraft crashed and was destroyed after being struck by a surface-to-air missile while approaching Techamutete Airport, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1988-04-27 Antonov AN-26 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 29 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1988-04-27 involved a Antonov AN-26, registration T-237, operated by Angola Air Force - Força Aérea Nacional Angolana, at Techamutete, Angola.

What was the probable cause of the accident?