Boeing 737-200 Crashes Near Imphal Airport
August 16th, 1991
August 16th, 1991

How Long Ago?
33 years, 6 months, 27 days ago
Location
Imphal, India
Category
Accidents & Tragedies
Links & References
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Boeing 737-200 Crashes Near Imphal Airport
Indian Airlines Flight 257, a Boeing 737-200, was approaching Imphal Airport when it lost altitude and crashed in the nearby hills. All 69 passengers and crew members died upon impact. The flight had originated from Kolkata and was carrying a mix of civilians. Despite poor weather conditions, the flight attempted to land, culminating in this tragic incident.
All 69 on board perished in the crash.
Flight originated from Kolkata, India.
Poor weather affected the flight's approach.
Led to discussions on aviation safety reforms.
What Happened?
Indian Airlines Flight 257, operating a Boeing 737-200, was on its approach to Imphal Airport when it encountered difficulties that ultimately led to its crash in the hills near the airport. The aircraft took off from Kolkata with 65 passengers and four crew members on board. Weather conditions were reported to be poor, possibly influencing the decision-making process during the approach. The aircraft reportedly lost altitude in its descent, leading to a critical point of no return and an unavoidable impact with the terrain surrounding Imphal.
The crash site was remote, making immediate rescue operations challenging. Recovery teams worked tirelessly to access the site and assess the situation. All individuals aboard were confirmed dead, leading to an outpouring of grief and condolences from families and the nation. This tragic event prompted discussions on aviation safety protocols, particularly in challenging weather conditions and mountainous regions.
Investigating agencies were summoned to determine the cause of the crash. It was later speculated that pilot error, combined with hazardous weather, played a significant role in this accident. The Indian aviation industry faced scrutiny and pressure to improve safety measures following this incident, highlighting the need for robust training programs and better technological support for navigation in adverse conditions.
Why Does it Matter?
The crash of Indian Airlines Flight 257 had significant implications for aviation safety in India. It led to increased awareness regarding the challenges of flying in the northeastern region of the country, which is characterized by difficult geographic conditions. The tragedy also sparked reforms in pilot training and navigation technology, contributing to improvements in the overall safety standards of Indian aviation. The incident remains a reference point in discussions about aviation safety protocols.
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