Flight accident at Mokpo Airport involving aircraft from Seoul-Gimpo

68 fatalities • Mokpo, South Korea • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft flying from Seoul-Gimpo crashed into a wooded slope near Mokpo Airport during a third landing attempt in severe weather, resulting in 68 fatalities.

What happened

During a flight originating from Seoul-Gimpo, the flight crew attempted to land at Mokpo Airport amidst challenging meteorological conditions, including heavy precipitation, strong winds, and low cloud ceilings. The crew initiated two separate go-around maneuvers after being unable to maintain visual contact with the runway environment.

While performing a third approach utilizing VOR/DME navigation, the aircraft impacted a forested area on the slope of Mt Ungeo. The collision occurred approximately 7.5 km before reaching the threshold of runway 006. The accident resulted in 68 fatalities (comprising two crew members and 66 passengers) and left 48 individuals injured.

Findings

Investigations into the accident indicate that the crew failed to maintain the required altitude during the instrument-based approach. The combination of poor visibility and the inability to monitor the aircraft's vertical position relative to the terrain led to the impact with the mountainside.

Probable cause

The crew failed to maintain a safe altitude during a VOR/DME approach in low-visibility weather conditions.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1993-07-26 Boeing 737-500 accident near Mokpo, South Korea?

An aircraft flying from Seoul-Gimpo crashed into a wooded slope near Mokpo Airport during a third landing attempt in severe weather, resulting in 68 fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1993-07-26 Boeing 737-500 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 68 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1993-07-26 involved a Boeing 737-500, registration HL7229, operated by Asiana Airlines, at Mokpo, South Korea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew failed to maintain a safe altitude during a VOR/DME approach in low-visibility weather conditions.

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