Aircraft crash near Palembang-Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport

26 fatalities • Palembang-Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, Indonesia • Landing (descent or approach)

A flight approaching Palembang crashed short of the runway after encountering heavy fog, resulting in widespread fatalities.

What happened

During an approach to Palembang-Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport, the aircraft encountered dense fog that limited visibility to approximately 50 meters. While on final approach, the plane descended below a safe altitude and collided with coconut trees. The impact occurred roughly 4 km before reaching runway 28. The crash resulted in the deaths of 21 passengers, all four crew members, and one person on the ground. Among the other occupants, 36 people sustained injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed during the accident.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the flight crew attempted to complete the approach using Visual Flight Rules (VFR) despite visibility levels falling below required minimums. This decision led the aircraft to descend beneath the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA), ultimately causing the collision with vegetation.

Probable cause

The crew attempted a visual approach in visibility conditions that were below the established minimums, leading to an uncontrolled descent below the safe altitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1975-09-24 Fokker F28 Fellowship accident near Palembang-Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, Indonesia?

A flight approaching Palembang crashed short of the runway after encountering heavy fog, resulting in widespread fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1975-09-24 Fokker F28 Fellowship accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 26 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1975-09-24 involved a Fokker F28 Fellowship, registration PK-GVC, operated by Garuda Indonesian Airways, at Palembang-Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, Indonesia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew attempted a visual approach in visibility conditions that were below the established minimums, leading to an uncontrolled descent below the safe altitude.

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