Accident Description
On final approach to New Delhi-Palam Airport at night, the flight crew encountered adverse weather conditions. Visibility was below the minima required for a safe landing, and the captain, unable to visually locate the runway, nevertheless decided to continue the approach. The aircraft subsequently descended below the proper glideslope. With the flaps extended to 40°, the airplane struck power cables and then crashed in flames near the district of Vasant Vihar, approximately 3 km east of the airport.
Casualties and Damage
The accident resulted in the deaths of 5 crew members and 43 passengers. Additionally, 17 other occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed by impact and fire.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation identified the probable cause of the accident as wrong approach configuration and poor flight planning on the part of the flight crew. No further causal factors were cited.