Approach error leads to fatal accident near Abuja-Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport

3 fatalities • Abuja, Nigeria • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed during a descent into Abuja while attempting a VOR/DME approach in adverse weather, resulting in three fatalities.

What happened

During a descent toward Abuja-Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, the flight crew encountered challenging meteorological conditions, including heavy rainfall, low cloud ceilings, and significant turbulence. Because the Instrument Landing System (ILS) was not properly calibrated for use, the crew opted to execute an approach using VOR/DME navigation.

During this maneuver, a misunderstanding of the VOR station location led the crew to initiate the final approach phase earlier than intended. As a result of the premature descent, the aircraft type struck the side of a mountain approximately 12.2 km before reaching runway 22. The accident resulted in three fatalities and two survivors.

Probable cause

The crew initiated the final approach prematurely due to a misidentification of the VOR station position during poor weather conditions.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1994-09-13 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Abuja, Nigeria?

An aircraft crashed during a descent into Abuja while attempting a VOR/DME approach in adverse weather, resulting in three fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1994-09-13 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-09-13 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration 5N-ATQ, operated by Aero Contractors, at Abuja, Nigeria.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew initiated the final approach prematurely due to a misidentification of the VOR station position during poor weather conditions.

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