What happened
During an approach into Leipzig-Halle Airport under poor weather conditions, the aircraft struck a localizer antenna while on short final. The impact occurred at an altitude of approximately 3 meters, causing significant structural damage as the left engine and a portion of the left wing were severed from the airframe. Following the collision, the aircraft lost control and crashed into flames roughly 300 meters before reaching the runway threshold.
The accident resulted in 27 fatalities among the occupants. Additionally, three crew members and four passengers sustained injuries during the event.
Findings
Investigations determined that the flight crew did not adhere to established procedures while descending in marginal visibility. Specifically, the crew failed to execute the approach checklist correctly and neglected to monitor the decision height. This led to the aircraft descending below the minimum descent altitude (MDA). The lack of adequate assistance from Air Traffic Control was also identified as a contributing element to the accident.