Accident Overview
An airplane crashed in a residential area approximately 8 km from the runway while attempting to land at Prague-Ruzyne Airport. The accident occurred during descent in poor weather conditions, which included fog, rain, and visibility limited to 1,500 meters. The aircraft entered the Vltava Valley after the crew passed below the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA). The captain then attempted to gain altitude by increasing engine power, but the airplane struck tree tops and subsequently crashed into houses and gardens.
Injuries and Fatalities
According to the official accident investigation, 75 occupants of the aircraft were killed, and 45 people were injured, including one crew member. The source does not specify injuries among people on the ground.
Weather and Navigation Aids
At the time of the accident, the Instrument Landing System (ILS) at Prague-Ruzyne Airport was inoperative. The crew faced fog and rain, with visibility limited to 1,500 meters.
Official Probable Cause
The official probable cause, as stated in the investigation findings, is: "The crew descended below the MDA in foggy conditions until the airplane struck obstacles and crashed."