Mid-air collision involving Fokker F28 and MiG-21 near Kano

16 fatalities • Kano, Nigeria • Landing (descent or approach)

A mid-air collision between a Fokker F28 and a Nigerian Air Force MiG-21 resulted in the destruction of both aircraft and 18 fatalities during arrival procedures at Kano-Mallam Aminu Kano Airport.

What happened

During an approach to Kano-Mallam Aminu Kano Airport, an F28 was instructed by air traffic control to remain at flight level 650. This instruction was issued because a Nigerian Air Force MiG-21 was conducting touch-and-go training maneuvers on the same airfield. Following the completion of its maneuver, the jet trainer began its takeoff roll, and the crew was notified that the incoming F28 was cleared to land first on runway 05.

As both aircraft were positioned on short final approach, a mid-air collision occurred. The impact caused both planes to crash in flames approximately 2 km before reaching the runway threshold. The accident resulted in 18 fatalities, with no survivors reported from either aircraft.

Findings

The specific factors leading to the in-flight collision remain undetermined, as the precise circumstances surrounding the encounter between the two aircraft have not been established.

Probable cause

The exact cause of the mid-air collision remains unknown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-03-02 Fokker F28 Fellowship accident near Kano, Nigeria?

A mid-air collision between a Fokker F28 and a Nigerian Air Force MiG-21 resulted in the destruction of both aircraft and 18 fatalities during arrival procedures at Kano-Mallam Aminu Kano Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-03-02 Fokker F28 Fellowship accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 16 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-03-02 involved a Fokker F28 Fellowship, registration 5N-ANA, operated by Nigeria Airways, at Kano, Nigeria.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exact cause of the mid-air collision remains unknown.

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