Fatal aircraft accident at Mueda Airport

11 fatalities • Mueda, Mozambique • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed short of the runway threshold at Mueda Airport during an approach in poor visibility, resulting in 11 fatalities.

What happened

During an approach to Mueda Airport, the flight crew encountered challenging meteorological conditions characterized by low cloud ceilings and restricted visibility. While performing the final approach to runway 16, the aircraft descended below the required altitude. This resulted in the plane striking the ground before reaching the runway threshold.

The impact caused the total destruction of the aircraft. There were 11 fatalities among the occupants of the flight, which included both crew members and passengers.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was a low approach conducted while operating in marginal weather conditions.

Probable cause

The pilot descended below the safe altitude during an approach in low visibility and cloud cover.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1973-05-02 Nord 2501 Noratlas accident near Mueda, Mozambique?

An aircraft crashed short of the runway threshold at Mueda Airport during an approach in poor visibility, resulting in 11 fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1973-05-02 Nord 2501 Noratlas accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 11 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1973-05-02 involved a Nord 2501 Noratlas, registration 6411, operated by Portuguese Air Force - Força Aerea Portuguesa (1952-), at Mueda, Mozambique.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot descended below the safe altitude during an approach in low visibility and cloud cover.

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