What happened
On August 24, 2008, a Boeing 737-200, registration EX-009, was operating flight IRC 6895 from Bishkek to Tehran under a lease agreement between the Kyrgyz airline Itek Air and Iran Aseman Airlines. The aircraft was carrying 85 passengers, 3 cabin crew members, and 2 technical engineers, along with a representative from Iran Aseeway Airlines.
After completing all pre-flight preparations and passing medical examinations at Manas Airport, the flight departed with a takeoff mass of 48,371 kg and 12,000 kg of fuel. The aircraft's center of gravity was within the permitted limits. After reaching an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters, the crew notified air traffic control of a cabin pressurization malfunction. Consequently, the crew decided to return to the departure airfield.
During the execution of a maneuver to descend for a visual approach, the aircraft struck the ground. The impact resulted in the destruction of the airframe and a subsequent fire. The accident resulted in 88 fatalities.
The investigation
The investigation reviewed the flight's operational parameters, including takeoff weight, fuel load, and center of gravity. It was confirmed that the crew had undergone medical clearance and that weather conditions at the departure, destination, and alternate airports were suitable for flight. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was operating under a specific lease agreement between the involved carriers.