Accident Summary
The accident occurred during a night approach to Sofia-Vrazhdebna Airport under conditions of limited visibility due to snowfall. While on short final, the crew descended below the prescribed glide path. The aircraft then struck power cables and tree tops, leading to a crash in a wooded area 4 kilometers short of the runway threshold. The aircraft burst into flames upon impact and was completely destroyed. All 50 persons on board were killed.
Circumstances of the Approach
The approach was conducted at night with reduced visibility caused by snow. The crew initiated the approach and proceeded to short final. At some point, the aircraft descended below the glide path. The crew continued the approach without establishing visual contact with the runway. The aircraft subsequently collided with power cables and tree tops. The crash site was located in a wooded area approximately 4 kilometers from the runway threshold.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be: "The decision of the crew to continue the approach below the glide without any visual contact with the runway until impact with obstacles."