5 fatalities

1982-06-07: Learjet 35 (T-24) — Argentinian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Argentina — Pebble Island (Falkland Islands), Falkland Islands

Pebble Island (Falkland Islands), Falkland IslandsFlight

On June 7, 1982, a Learjet 35 (registration T-24) operated by Argentinian Air Force - Fuerza Aérea Argentina was involved in an aviation accident near Pebble Island (Falkland Islands), Falkland Islands in flight. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was struck and downed by a Sea Dart missile fired from the HMS Exeter. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781221448Data APIEditorial standards

A Learjet 35A conducting an aerial photography mission was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile during its approach to Pebble Island.

What happened

On the morning of the incident, a Learjet 35A, operating under the callsign Nardo 1, departed from Comodoro Rivadavia Airport at 08:00 local time. The aircraft was engaged in a reconnaissance mission involving aerial photography.

As the aircraft approached Pebble Island, it was struck by a Sea Dart surface-to-air missile launched from the HMS Exeter. Following the impact, the plane entered a steep dive and plunged into the ocean. The accident resulted in five fatalities, as all crew members on board were killed during the crash.

Findings

The destruction of the aircraft, registered LV-ONN, was caused by direct engagement with a surface-to-air missile system.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck and downed by a Sea Dart missile fired from the HMS Exeter.