Fatal aircraft crash near Yirol Airport

20 fatalities • Yirol, South Sudan • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into Yirol Lake during approach to Yiral Airport, resulting in 20 fatalities.

What happened

During an approach to Yiral Airport, a twin engine aircraft encountered heavy fog, which significantly reduced visibility. While attempting to land, the aircraft descended below a safe altitude and struck the surface of the Yirol Lake. The impact occurred approximately 2 km north of the airfield.

Upon the collision, the aircraft was completely destroyed. Initial rescue efforts located four individuals among the wreckage. Of these survivors, two were children and one was an Italian doctor. Tragically, one of the survivors succumbed to their injuries the following day, bringing the total number of fatalities to 20. The remaining 3 survivors were successfully rescued from the site.

The flight was being operated on behalf of the Slaver Company, a firm based in Ukraine.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was the presence of poor visibility caused by fog during the approach phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the surface of a lake during approach due to low visibility caused by fog.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2018-09-09 Let L-410 accident near Yirol, South Sudan?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into Yirol Lake during approach to Yiral Airport, resulting in 20 fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 2018-09-09 Let L-410 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 20 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2018-09-09 involved a Let L-410, registration UR-TWO, operated by South West Aviation, at Yirol, South Sudan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the surface of a lake during approach due to low visibility caused by fog.

Loading the flight search…