Iran Air Flight 291 was a domestic flight operating between the city of Tabriz and Tehran, Iran. On its final approach to Mehrabad International Airport on a wintery day, the flight crew faced challenging weather conditions characterized by strong turbulence and low visibility. The Boeing 727-200 aircraft, carrying 120 passengers and 8 crew members, was in communication with air traffic control as it prepared to land when it suddenly lost altitude and crashed into the snow-covered slopes of the Alborz Mountains, just a few miles from its destination.

Search and rescue operations commenced immediately, as local authorities and rescue workers faced treacherous conditions in their attempt to reach the crash site. The remote location, combined with the harsh winter weather, complicated efforts to determine the cause of the crash and recover bodies. Investigations revealed that the flight had encountered severe wind shear and turbulence, leading to loss of control. The accident raised questions about the safety protocols and operational standards of Iranian airlines during that period, particularly concerning weather awareness and pilot training.

In the aftermath, the tragedy served as a catalyst for improvements in aviation safety regulations in Iran. It highlighted the need for enhanced pilot training, better communication with air traffic control, and the introduction of more advanced meteorological services to ensure the safety of passengers. Despite the efforts, the crash, alongside others in the same era, underscored the challenges faced by the Iranian aviation industry as it strived to keep pace with international standards amidst political and economic turmoil.