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4 fatalities

Fatal aircraft accident near Ardabil Airport (5-3020)

Ardabil, IranLanding (descent or approach)

On March 3, 1997, a Dassault Falcon 20 (registration 5-3020) operated by Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force was involved in an aviation accident near Ardabil, Iran during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway while operating in adverse weather conditions. 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 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

A humanitarian flight from Tehran crashed short of the runway at Ardabil Airport during approach in adverse weather, resulting in four fatalities.

What happened

During a humanitarian mission originating from Tehran, an aircraft was performing its approach to Ardabil Airport. While navigating through challenging weather conditions, the aircraft impacted the terrain a few kilometers before reaching the runway threshold.

All four crew members on board the aircraft perished in the impact. There were no other occupants reported on the flight.

Findings

  • The accident occurred during the approach phase of flight.
  • The presence of poor weather conditions at the time of the accident was a significant factor in the sequence of events leading to the ground impact.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway while operating in adverse weather conditions.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Mar 1997 Dassault Falcon 20 accident near Ardabil, Iran?

A humanitarian flight from Tehran crashed short of the runway at Ardabil Airport during approach in adverse weather, resulting in four fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Mar 1997 Dassault Falcon 20 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Mar 1997 involved a Dassault Falcon 20, registration 5-3020, operated by Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force, at Ardabil, Iran.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway while operating in adverse weather conditions.

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