Aircraft crash at Ankara-Esenboğa Airport

47 fatalities • Ankara-Esenboğa, Turkey • Landing (descent or approach)

A three-engine aircraft crashed during its final approach to Ankara-Esenboğa Airport amidst heavy snowfall, resulting in numerous fatalities.

What happened

During a nighttime arrival at Ankara-Esenboğa Airport, a three-engine airplane was performing its final approach when it encountered adverse weather characterized by falling snow. As the aircraft reached the short final stage of its descent, it impacted the terrain approximately 50 meters before reaching the runway threshold. The impact triggered a post-crash fire.

The accident resulted in a high number of casualties, with 47 passengers killed and 20 occupants injured during the event.

Findings

Investigations into the crash indicated that the aircraft's descent was interrupted by severe atmospheric instability. The primary factor contributing to the accident was that the plane lost altitude during the final segment of flight due to the effects of wind shear and downdrafts.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced a loss of altitude during its final approach caused by encountering downdrafts and wind shear.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1983-01-16 Boeing 727-200 accident near Ankara-Esenboğa, Turkey?

A three-engine aircraft crashed during its final approach to Ankara-Esenboğa Airport amidst heavy snowfall, resulting in numerous fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1983-01-16 Boeing 727-200 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 47 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-01-16 involved a Boeing 727-200, registration TC-JBR, operated by Turkish Airlines - THY Türk Hava Yollari, at Ankara-Esenboğa, Turkey.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced a loss of altitude during its final approach caused by encountering downdrafts and wind shear.

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