Fatal crash of four-engine aircraft near Nicosia Airport

37 fatalities • Nicosia, Cyprus • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft crashed into the slopes of Mt Kyrenia during a night approach to Nicosia, resulting in no survivors.

What happened

During a nighttime arrival at Nicosia Airport from Cairo, a four-engine airplane impacted the terrain near the runway threshold. While performing the approach, the crew did not maintain sufficient altitude. At approximately 2,600 feet, the aircraft struck the side of Mt Kyrenia, located roughly 16 km from the start of runway 14.

The impact occurred on a slope situated 117 meters below the mountain's summit. The accident resulted in 37 fatalities, with no survivors reported among the occupants.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the primary factor was controlled flight into terrain.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the mountainside because the crew failed to maintain a safe altitude during the approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1973-01-29 Ilyushin II-18 accident near Nicosia, Cyprus?

A four-engine aircraft crashed into the slopes of Mt Kyrenia during a night approach to Nicosia, resulting in no survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1973-01-29 Ilyushin II-18 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 37 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1973-01-29 involved a Ilyushin II-18, registration SU-AOV, operated by Egyptair, at Nicosia, Cyprus.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the mountainside because the crew failed to maintain a safe altitude during the approach.

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