3 fatalities

IAI Arava Test Flight Ends in Crash Near Tulkarm (4X-IAI)

Tulkarm, PalestineFlight

On November 19, 1970, an IAI Arava 201 (registration 4X-IAI) operated by Israel Aerospace Industries - IAI was involved in an aviation accident near Tulkarm, Palestine in flight. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed that the accident was the result of a 'structural failure' of the wings that were torn off in flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered 4X-IAI
Aircraft registered 4X-IAI. Photo: SDASM Archives / Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

During the 92nd test flight of the IAI Arava certification program, control was lost and the aircraft crashed in a desert area near Tulkarm, Palestine. Three crew members were killed, one seriously injured, and the aircraft was destroyed.

Incident Overview

On the 92nd test flight of the IAI Arava certification program, the crew lost control of the aircraft. The airplane subsequently crashed in a desert area located near Tulkarm, Palestine. The impact resulted in the destruction of the aircraft.

Casualties and Damage

Three crew members were killed in the accident, while a fourth occupant sustained serious injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed.

Official Findings

According to the investigation, the probable cause of the accident was determined to be a structural failure of the wings, which were torn off during flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Nov 1970 IAI Arava 201 accident near Tulkarm, Palestine?

During the 92nd test flight of the IAI Arava certification program, control was lost and the aircraft crashed in a desert area near Tulkarm, Palestine. Three crew members were killed, one seriously injured, and the aircraft was destroyed.

Were there any fatalities in the 19 Nov 1970 IAI Arava 201 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Nov 1970 involved an IAI Arava 201, registration 4X-IAI, operated by Israel Aerospace Industries - IAI, at Tulkarm, Palestine.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

It is believed that the accident was the result of a 'structural failure' of the wings that were torn off in flight.