Incident Overview
A three-engine aircraft operating a flight from Abadan to Mashhad diverted to Isfahan Airport due to poor weather conditions at the destination. The aircraft departed Isfahan at 0535 local time bound for Mashhad. While conducting an ILS approach in thick fog, the aircraft was in a nose-high attitude when the base of the empennage struck the runway surface and separated.
Impact and Aftermath
Upon impact, the undercarriage were torn off. Out of control, the aircraft slid for a few dozen metres, veered off the runway, and came to rest with both wings partially torn off. The aircraft burst into flames and was partially destroyed by fire. At least 46 occupants were injured. The vertical visibility during the accident was reported as 200 feet due to fog.
Probable Cause
The official investigation reported the following findings:
- The visibility was below minimums.
- The crew continued the approach despite the aircraft attitude being incorrect.
- The crew failed to initiate a go-around procedure.