Accident Overview
A night approach to Kuwait-Ahmed Al-Jaber Air Force Base ended when the aircraft struck the ground approximately 2,895 feet short and about 40 feet left of the runway centerline. The impact tore off the undercarriage, with some components penetrating the cabin floor. The crew initiated a go-around procedure and diverted to Kuwait International Airport, where they performed an emergency belly landing. Three passengers were killed; all other occupants were rescued. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Circumstances
The accident occurred during a night approach. The aircraft impacted terrain short of the runway threshold, causing severe structural damage. After the initial impact, the crew executed a go-around and proceeded to an alternate airport, successfully completing a belly landing. Emergency services responded, and surviving occupants were evacuated.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause was the failure of the crew to follow published procedures. Contributing factors included crew complacency; the pilot-in-command experiencing spatial disorientation during a critical flight phase, leading to loss of situational awareness and failure to recognize an unsafe descent; lack of pilot leadership and discipline; lack of support from the copilot, navigator, and flight engineer; and an overall lack of sound judgment by the flight deck crew.