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11 fatalities

Aircraft Strikes Sand Dune During Third Landing Attempt at Dhahran (HZ-AAZ)

Dhahran, Saudi ArabiaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 8, 1968, a Convair CV-340 (registration HZ-AAZ) operated by Saudi Arabian Airlines - SAUDIA was involved in an aviation accident near Dhahran, Saudi Arabia during landing or approach. 11 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

While attempting to land at Dhahran Airport during a sandstorm, the crew made three approaches. On the third, the aircraft descended too low and struck a sand dune 5 km from the runway, killing all 11 occupants.

Incident

Aircraft was on approach to Dhahran Airport when the crew encountered poor weather conditions, including a sandstorm. The pilot was unable to locate the runway on the first attempt and initiated a go-around, entering a holding pattern. A second landing attempt was made a few minutes later, but poor visibility again forced the crew to execute a go-around.

Third Approach and Collision

During the third approach, the aircraft descended too low and struck a sand dune located 5 km short of the runway. The impact resulted in a crash.

Occupants and Outcome

All 11 occupants on board were killed in the accident.

Controlled flight into terrain

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Jul 1968 Convair CV-340 accident near Dhahran, Saudi Arabia?

While attempting to land at Dhahran Airport during a sandstorm, the crew made three approaches. On the third, the aircraft descended too low and struck a sand dune 5 km from the runway, killing all 11 occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Jul 1968 Convair CV-340 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 11 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Jul 1968 involved a Convair CV-340, registration HZ-AAZ, operated by Saudi Arabian Airlines - SAUDIA, at Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

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