Overview
On an unspecified date, a civilian aircraft operating a flight to Mazari Sharif Airport crashed into a mountainside near Samangan. The accident occurred during night descent in poor weather conditions. The aircraft was carrying 76 passengers and crew, all of whom were civilians traveling to commemorate the victory of Afghan rebels against the communist regime in Kabul.
Accident
The crew initiated descent toward Mazari Sharif Airport in darkness and adverse weather. During this phase, the aircraft collided with the slope of a mountain located near Samangan. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate. Rescue teams located the wreckage several hours later, approximately 65 kilometers southeast of Mazari Sharif. All 76 occupants sustained fatal injuries.
Investigation
Official investigation into the accident determined that the crash resulted from controlled flight into terrain. The crew descended prematurely over a mountainous region while operating in reduced visibility due to night conditions and poor weather.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident, as stated in the official findings, is controlled flight into terrain after the crew descended prematurely over a mountainous area in poor visibility due to the night and poor weather conditions.