Accident Overview
On approach to Izmir-Adnan Menderes Airport, the copilot, acting as pilot-in-command, was cleared to the Outer Marker (CU NDB) and subsequently for an ILS approach to runway 35. After passing the NDB, the crew switched to the ILS, which prevented them from verifying their position during the procedure turn. The aircraft deviated outside the 35° sector of the ILS centerline and the crew followed the incorrect side beam. This caused the aircraft to descend too low and strike the slope of Mount Dümentepe, elevation 800 meters, located approximately 18 kilometers southwest of the airport. The aircraft disintegrated upon impact.
Occupants and Personnel
The flight carried 16 occupants, all of whom were killed. The crew consisted of pilot Wolfgang Hechler, copilot Helmuth Zöller, steward Lothar Mühlmeister, and stewardesses Susan Epple, Susanne Kaltenbach. The passengers were Zeki Aktaş, Mübeccel Can, Ethem Delinaslan, Necla Demirel, Tülay Yildiz, Müslim Yildiz, Mustafa Azur, Hüseyin Vidinli, Faruk Şimşek, Tanza Akçif, and Sadri Yetmişbir.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the accident resulted from the flight crew's incorrect use of navigation aids. The primary cause was attributed to the crew's failure to adhere to company procedures, particularly regarding crew coordination during the approach and basic instrument flying procedures. It was also noted that the terminal radar was not available at the time of the accident.