Interception and shoot-down of Ilyushin aircraft over Mediterranean Sea

16 fatalities • Mediterranean Sea, World • Flight

An Ilyushin transport aircraft carrying Egyptian military personnel was intercepted and shot down by an Israeli Gloster Meteor NF.13 during a flight from Damascus to Cairo.

What happened

During a flight traveling from Damascus toward Cairo, an Ilyushin transport aircraft was cruising at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet when it was intercepted by an Israeli Air Force Gloster Meteor NF.13. The aircraft was transporting several personnel from the Egyptian Air Force and the Air Defence Command.

Following intelligence reports regarding the presence of Egyptian General Abed al-Hakim Amar on the flight, orders were issued to intercept and engage the plane. The crew of the Meteor, consisting of a pilot and a navigator, conducted multiple attacks against the Ilyushin. As a result of these strikes, the aircraft lost control and descended into the Mediterranean Sea. The crash resulted in all on board being killed. Subsequent investigations by Egyptian authorities determined that General Amar was not actually present on the flight at the time of the incident.

Findings

Official records indicate that the destruction of the aircraft was the direct result of an attack by an Israeli fighter jet.

Probable cause

The aircraft was shot down by an Israeli Gloster Meteor NF.13 following a targeted interception.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1956-10-29 Ilyushin II-14 accident near Mediterranean Sea, World?

An Ilyushin transport aircraft carrying Egyptian military personnel was intercepted and shot down by an Israeli Gloster Meteor NF.13 during a flight from Damascus to Cairo.

Were there any fatalities in the 1956-10-29 Ilyushin II-14 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 16 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1956-10-29 involved a Ilyushin II-14, registration 1101, operated by Egyptian Air Force and Air Defence Command, at Mediterranean Sea, World.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was shot down by an Israeli Gloster Meteor NF.13 following a targeted interception.

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