6 fatalities

1995-08-31: Antonov AN-26 (TZ-347) — Malian Air Force - Force Aérienne de la République du Mali — Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki, GreeceLanding (descent or approach)

On August 31, 1995, an Antonov AN-26 (registration TZ-347) operated by Malian Air Force - Force Aérienne de la République du Mali was involved in an aviation accident near Thessaloniki, Greece during landing or approach. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew failed to realize their altitude was too low during the approach. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781207746Data APIEditorial standards

A ferry flight from Kiev to Bamako diverted to Thessaloniki due to technical problems. While attempting a visual approach in low visibility, the aircraft struck a mountain slope 4 km short of the runway, killing all six crew members.

Background

The aircraft was being ferried from Kiev, Ukraine, to Bamako, Mali, with an intermediate stop in Tunis, Tunisia, following a complete revision at the Antonov factory in Kiev. During the leg from Kiev to Tunis, while flying over northern Greece, the crew reported technical problems to air traffic control and received clearance to divert to Thessaloniki-Makedonia Airport.

Approach and Accident

Upon arrival at Thessaloniki, a radar (instrument) approach was not possible. The crew then attempted to land under visual flight rules (VFR) in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). On final approach, visibility was limited due to rain and fog. The crew failed to realize that their altitude was too low, and the aircraft struck the slope of a mountain located 4 km short of the runway. All six crew members on board were killed.

Possible Technical Issues

The source indicates that it is possible the crew encountered technical problems with the fuel system, though no further details are provided.

Investigation

No information from an official investigation is included in the source.

Probable cause

The crew failed to realize their altitude was too low during the approach.