Engine failure and loss of communication involving Antonov An-26B in Bangladesh

3 fatalities • Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh • Takeoff (climb)

An Antonov An-26B cargo flight operating in Bangladesh crashed near Cox's Bazar following an engine failure and subsequent loss of contact with air traffic control.

What happened

On March 9, 2016, an Antonov An-26B operated by True Aviation Ltd was performing a scheduled cargo transport from Cox’s Bazar (VGCB) to Jessore (VGJR). The aircraft was carrying 4,800 kg of shrimp fries across 802 boxes. During the early hours of the flight, the crew requested engine startup at 0258z, after which they were cleared to taxi to Runway 35 via taxiway S.

Shortly after receiving takeoff clearance at 0305z, the pilot reported an engine malfunction, specifically identifying a failure of the left engine. The crew requested an immediate return to the departure airport. While air traffic control instructed the aircraft to follow a left-hand downwind pattern, controllers observed the aircraft performing a right-hand downwind at a very low altitude.

As the aircraft approached for landing, it executed a low-level go-around at an altitude of approximately 400 to 500 feet. Following this maneuver, the crew ceased all radio communications. Despite repeated attempts by the controller to re-establish contact, the aircraft disappeared from radar and communication. At 0332z, authorities were notified that the aircraft had crashed roughly 3km west of the airport. There were 2 fatalities among the crew members, as only the flight navigator survived the impact.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced a failure of the left engine immediately after takeoff.
  • The crew failed to follow the instructed left-hand downwind pattern, instead flying a right-hand pattern at low altitude.
  • Total loss of communication occurred following a low-level go-around maneuver.

Probable cause

An engine failure on the left side occurred shortly after takeoff, followed by a low-altitude go-around and subsequent loss of communication and control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2016-03-09 Antonov AN-26 accident near Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh?

An Antonov An-26B cargo flight operating in Bangladesh crashed near Cox's Bazar following an engine failure and subsequent loss of contact with air traffic control.

Were there any fatalities in the 2016-03-09 Antonov AN-26 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2016-03-09 involved a Antonov AN-26, registration S2-AGZ, operated by True Aviation, at Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An engine failure on the left side occurred shortly after takeoff, followed by a low-altitude go-around and subsequent loss of communication and control.

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