Aircraft impact near Lisbon-Portela de Sacavém Airport

2 fatalities • Calhandriz, Portugal • Landing (descent or approach)

A military flight from Tancos Airbase crashed into a mountain during an instrument approach to Lisbon, resulting in the loss of both crew members.

What happened

During a scheduled flight originating from Tancos Airbase, the aircraft was performing an instrument approach toward runway 21 at Lisbon-Portelle de Sacavém Airport. While navigating the approach, the flight crew did not detect that the plane had descended below the required altitude. Consequently, the aircraft collided with the slope of a mountain situated in the Calhandriz region, approximately 16 km north of the destination airport.

The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. There were two fatalities among the crew, consisting of both pilots on board.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was a failure to maintain the necessary altitude during the instrument approach phase.
  • The collision occurred due to the aircraft striking terrain while at an insufficient height above the mountain slope.

Probable cause

The crew failed to recognize that the aircraft's altitude was too low during the instrument approach, leading to controlled flight into terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1976-11-19 Casa 212 Aviocar accident near Calhandriz, Portugal?

A military flight from Tancos Airbase crashed into a mountain during an instrument approach to Lisbon, resulting in the loss of both crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 1976-11-19 Casa 212 Aviocar accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1976-11-19 involved a Casa 212 Aviocar, registration 6516, operated by Portuguese Air Force - Força Aerea Portuguesa (1952-), at Calhandriz, Portugal.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew failed to recognize that the aircraft's altitude was too low during the instrument approach, leading to controlled flight into terrain.

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