On September 9, 2018, a Let L-410 (registration UR-TWO) operated by South West Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Yirol, South Sudan during landing or approach. 20 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft descended too low during approach, resulting in impact with the lake surface. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft crashed into Yirol Lake while approaching Yirol Airport in fog, killing 19 occupants. Four were rescued initially, but one later died. Three survivors include two children and an Italian doctor.
Accident Details
On approach to Yirol Airport, a twin-engine aircraft encountered poor visibility due to fog. The aircraft descended too low, impacted the surface of Yirol Lake, and crashed approximately 2 kilometers north of the airfield. The impact destroyed the aircraft.
Casualties and Survivors
Four occupants were rescued from the wreckage, while 19 others were killed. One of the survivors died from injuries the following day. The three remaining survivors are two children and an Italian doctor.
Flight Information
The flight was conducted on behalf of the Slaver Company, based in Ukraine.
Probable cause
The aircraft descended too low during approach, resulting in impact with the lake surface.