Aircraft crash during approach to Enugu Airport

53 fatalities • Enugu, Nigeria • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed short of the runway threshold at Enugu Airport following a descent below minimum visibility levels, resulting in 53 fatalities.

What happened

During the final approach phase toward Enugu Airport, the flight encountered heavy fog that reduced visibility to levels below established minimums. Despite these conditions, the crew proceeded with the approach, descending beneath the glide slope and the minimum descent altitude. The aircraft type struck the ground while maintaining a relatively flat attitude approximately 3.3 km before reaching the runway threshold.

The force of the impact caused the undercarriage to detach from the airframe. Following the initial contact, the plane slid along its belly for several dozen meters before catching fire and coming to a complete stop. The accident resulted in 53 fatalities and left 19 individuals with serious injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed during the event.

Findings

Investigations into the accident highlighted that the crew chose to maintain their approach despite the weather conditions being below safe operating limits. Additionally, it was noted that the ILS system was not operational at the time of the incident.

Probable cause

The crew's decision to proceed with an approach in visibility conditions below minimums while the ILS was unserviceable.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1983-11-28 Fokker F28 Fellowship accident near Enugu, Nigeria?

An aircraft crashed short of the runway threshold at Enugu Airport following a descent below minimum visibility levels, resulting in 53 fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1983-11-28 Fokker F28 Fellowship accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 53 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-11-28 involved a Fokker F28 Fellowship, registration 5N-ANF, operated by Nigeria Airways, at Enugu, Nigeria.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew's decision to proceed with an approach in visibility conditions below minimums while the ILS was unserviceable.

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