Aircraft crash near Cairo International Airport

23 fatalities • Cairo-Intl, Egypt • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a building during its approach to Cairo International Airport following a sandstorm, resulting in significant loss of life.

What happened

During the final approach phase to Cairo International Airport, the flight crew encountered severe weather conditions brought on by an active sandstorm. As the aircraft type (not specified) progressed along the final approach path, it descended below the established glide slope. This descent led to a collision with the roof of a structure located within an industrial estate situated just short of the airport runway.

Findings

  • The flight crew operated the aircraft below the required minimum descent altitude.
  • Low visibility conditions caused by the sandstorm significantly impacted the crew's ability to maintain safe separation from terrain and obstacles.
  • The collision with a building in the industrial area was the direct result of descending below the minimum descent altitude during periods of poor visibility.

Probable cause

The flight crew descended below the prescribed minimum descent altitude while operating in low-visibility conditions caused by a sandstorm.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1986-06-10 Fokker F27 Friendship accident near Cairo-Intl, Egypt?

An aircraft crashed into a building during its approach to Cairo International Airport following a sandstorm, resulting in significant loss of life.

Were there any fatalities in the 1986-06-10 Fokker F27 Friendship accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 23 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1986-06-10 involved a Fokker F27 Friendship, registration SU-GAD, operated by Air Sinai, at Cairo-Intl, Egypt.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The flight crew descended below the prescribed minimum descent altitude while operating in low-visibility conditions caused by a sandstorm.

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