On October 24, 1986, a Learjet 25 (registration N51DB) operated by Salim Ben Laden was involved in an aviation accident near Madinah, Saudi Arabia during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was reported that both elevators were not found at the point of impact and were missing. It is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of the elevator detachment in flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft approaching Madinah Airport in limited visibility went out of control, entered a near-vertical descent, and crashed on a mountainside. Both pilots were killed. The probable cause was the in-flight detachment of both elevators.
Incident Description
While approaching Madinah Airport, the aircraft encountered limited visibility due to marginal weather conditions. During the approach, the aircraft went out of control, entered a near-vertical descent, and crashed on the slope of a mountain located a few kilometers from the airport. Upon impact, the aircraft disintegrated. Both pilots were killed.
Investigation and Probable Cause
Following the accident, investigators examined the wreckage. It was reported that both elevators were not found at the point of impact and were missing. The official probable cause states that the loss of control was believed to be the consequence of the elevator detachment in flight.
What happened in the 24 Oct 1986 Learjet 25 accident near Madinah, Saudi Arabia?
An aircraft approaching Madinah Airport in limited visibility went out of control, entered a near-vertical descent, and crashed on a mountainside. Both pilots were killed. The probable cause was the in-flight detachment of both elevators.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 Oct 1986 Learjet 25 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Oct 1986 involved a Learjet 25, registration N51DB, operated by Salim Ben Laden, at Madinah, Saudi Arabia.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
It was reported that both elevators were not found at the point of impact and were missing. It is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of the elevator detachment in flight.
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