Fatal aircraft impact near Jungshahi, Pakistan

26 fatalities • Jungshahi, Pakistan • Flight

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its descent to Karachi, resulting in the deaths of all 26 people on board.

What happened

During a nighttime descent toward Karachi-Mauripur Airport, an aircraft struck a mountain slope measuring approximately 1,185 feet in elevation. The impact occurred near the village of Jungshahi, roughly 80 km east of the destination airport. The force of the collision and a subsequent fire following the crash resulted in the destruction of the aircraft and 26 fatalities. Following the accident, the operator's Air Operator Certificate (AOC) was suspended for an indefinite period.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified several contributing elements. The pilot provided a position report indicating the aircraft was closer to Karachi than its actual location; had this report been accurate, the flight path would have cleared the mountain range. Furthermore, the crew proceeded with a descent that violated standard letdown procedures for Karachi Airport, continuing to descend after having previously reported an altitude of 2,500 feet at 21:47 local time. Navigational error regarding the aircraft's true position relative to the terrain was a primary factor, compounded by limited visibility due to nighttime conditions.

Probable cause

The pilot's inaccurate position reporting and failure to follow standard descent procedures led to the aircraft striking terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1949-12-12 Douglas C-53 Skytrooper (DC-3) accident near Jungshahi, Pakistan?

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its descent to Karachi, resulting in the deaths of all 26 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1949-12-12 Douglas C-53 Skytrooper (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 26 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1949-12-12 involved a Douglas C-53 Skytrooper (DC-3), registration AP-ADI, operated by Pakistan Airways - Pak Air, at Jungshahi, Pakistan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inaccurate position reporting and failure to follow standard descent procedures led to the aircraft striking terrain.

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