14 fatalities

1979-01-24: Nord 262 (7T-VSU) — Air Algérie — Béchar, Algeria

Béchar, AlgeriaLanding (descent or approach)

On January 24, 1979, a Nord 262 (registration 7T-VSU) operated by Air Algérie was involved in an aviation accident near Béchar, Algeria during landing or approach. 14 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was the consequence of a combination of factors: poor approach planning, failure to comply with published procedures, lack of crew coordination, crew fatigue, and a possible malfunction of the captain altimeter. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781225630Data APIEditorial standards

On a night approach to Béchar Airport, the crew failed to monitor altitude, resulting in the aircraft striking the ground 15 km from the runway. 14 passengers died, and nine others, including all three crew, were injured.

Accident Details

On a night approach to Béchar Airport, the flight crew failed to monitor their altitude effectively. The aircraft descended too low and struck the ground in a desert area located approximately 15 kilometers from the runway threshold. The impact resulted in the deaths of 14 passengers. Nine other occupants, including all three flight crew members, sustained injuries. The accident occurred during nighttime conditions.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the accident was the consequence of a combination of factors: poor approach planning, failure to comply with published procedures, lack of crew coordination, crew fatigue, and a possible malfunction of the captain altimeter. The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, or operator.