Aircraft accident near Ürümqi-Diwopu Airport

12 fatalities • Ürümqi-Diwopu, China • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed in a field near Ürümqi-Diwopu Airport after striking a concrete wall and power lines during a low-visibility approach.

What happened

During an approach to Ürümqi-Diwopu, the aircraft encountered heavy fog that significantly reduced visibility. While on short final for runway 25, the aircraft descended below the established glide path and impacted a concrete wall situated approximately 3 km from the runway threshold. Following this initial impact, the aircraft gained altitude momentarily before striking power lines. The sequence ended when the aircraft crashed into a nearby field, where a post-crash fire erupted.

There were 12 fatalities recorded among the occupants, which included four crew members. The aircraft was completely destroyed by the resulting flames.

Findings

  • The approach was conducted under conditions of limited visibility due to fog.
  • The aircraft's descent path fell below the required glide slope prior to the collision with the wall.

Probable cause

The aircraft descended below the glide path during a low-visibility approach, leading to a collision with ground obstacles.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1993-11-13 McDonnell Douglas MD-82 accident near Ürümqi-Diwopu, China?

An aircraft crashed in a field near Ürümqi-Diwopu Airport after striking a concrete wall and power lines during a low-visibility approach.

Were there any fatalities in the 1993-11-13 McDonnell Douglas MD-82 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 12 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1993-11-13 involved a McDonnell Douglas MD-82, registration B-2141, operated by China Northern Airlines, at Ürümqi-Diwopu, China.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft descended below the glide path during a low-visibility approach, leading to a collision with ground obstacles.

Loading the flight search…