Aircraft crash near Mount Sirach during approach to Kerman

275 fatalities • Kerman, Iran • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft crashed into a mountain slope during a night approach to Kerman, resulting in the deaths of all 275 people on board.

What happened

A flight traveling from Zahedan to Kerman crashed while attempting to land at Kerman Airport. The aircraft, a four-engine plane, was carrying 257 passengers and 18 crew members. During the night descent, the flight encountered severe weather characterized by intense winds and heavy snowfall.

As the aircraft was on approach, it collided with the slope of Mt Sirach, situated approximately 32 km from the destination airport. Search and rescue teams reached the site the following morning. The debris field was located roughly 100 meters below the mountain's peak. The accident resulted in 275 fatalities, with no survivors reported among the passengers or the crew.

Findings

  • The aircraft encountered extreme weather conditions, including heavy snow and strong winds, during the approach phase.
  • The impact occurred on the terrain of Mt Sirach during a night descent.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a mountain slope during a night approach while navigating heavy snow and strong winds.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-02-19 Ilyushin II-76 accident near Kerman, Iran?

A four-engine aircraft crashed into a mountain slope during a night approach to Kerman, resulting in the deaths of all 275 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 2003-02-19 Ilyushin II-76 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 275 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-02-19 involved a Ilyushin II-76, registration 15-2280, operated by Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, at Kerman, Iran.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck a mountain slope during a night approach while navigating heavy snow and strong winds.

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