Accident Sequence
On approach to Tripoli Airport under night conditions with poor weather, the flight crew was unable to locate the runway and initiated a go-around. The captain abandoned the approach procedure for a go-around maneuver three times. During a fourth attempt, the captain descended below the glide path. The aircraft subsequently struck trees and crashed 1,200 yards short of runway 11.
Casualties and Damage
The aircraft was destroyed. Two crew members and 13 passengers were killed. All other occupants on board were injured.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the accident was the result of an error of judgment on the part of the captain. Having made three unsuccessful attempts to line up and land on runway 11, on his fourth attempt he allowed his desire to keep the runway lights in view to affect his judgment. During a visual approach to the runway, he failed to make adequate reference to his flight instruments. In the restricted visibility, the runway lights gave him insufficient guidance as to attitude, height, and angle of approach. Unknowingly, he permitted the aircraft to descend below its correct approach path.