Aircraft crash near Sarab-e Dowreh

119 fatalities • Khorramabad, Iran • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its approach to Khorramabad Airport, resulting in the loss of all 119 people on board.

What happened

During a flight originating from Tehran, the crew began their descent toward runway 11 at Khorramlyabad Airport. The approach was conducted under conditions of poor visibility and inclement weather. While navigating the descent, the aircraft deviated from its intended flight path. The plane subsequently collided with a mountain slope situated a short distance northeast of Sarab-e Dowreh, approximately 25 km from the threshold of runway 11.

Search teams located the wreckage on a snow-covered rock face several hours after the incident. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate upon hitting the terrain. There were 119 fatalities in the accident, with no survivors reported. The passenger manifest included four Spanish nationals.

Findings

Investigation into the crash indicates that the crew failed to recognize the navigational deviation caused by the adverse weather conditions during the approach phase.

Probable cause

The crew's failure to maintain the correct flight path during a descent in low-visibility weather led to a collision with terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-02-12 Tupolev TU-154 accident near Khorramabad, Iran?

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its approach to Khorramabad Airport, resulting in the loss of all 119 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 2002-02-12 Tupolev TU-154 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 119 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-02-12 involved a Tupolev TU-154, registration EP-MBS, operated by Iran Airtour, at Khorramabad, Iran.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew's failure to maintain the correct flight path during a descent in low-visibility weather led to a collision with terrain.

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