The crash of the Biman Bangladesh Airlines Fokker F27 Friendship occurred during an approach to Zia International Airport in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Flight BD-721 was carrying a total of 49 people, including passengers and crew members. As the aircraft descended to land, it encountered difficulties that led to a loss of altitude before ultimately crashing. Eyewitness reports indicated that the plane seemed to struggle for control as it neared the runway. This tragic incident raised immediate concerns regarding the safety and operational procedures involving the airline and the aircraft type.

Following the crash, investigations were conducted to determine the exact cause of the accident. Factors such as weather conditions, mechanical failures, and pilot error were scrutinized. The Fokker F27 Friendship, a turboprop regional airliner, had been in service since the 1950s and was widely used in airline operations, leading to a significant focus on air travel safety in Bangladesh, which at the time had a growing aviation industry. The accident served as a catalyst for discussions about improving safety regulations and operational standards within the country's aviation sector.

The crash not only resulted in the loss of lives but also highlighted the challenges of air travel in a developing country. Following the incident, Biman Bangladesh Airlines faced increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities and the international community regarding its safety practices and maintenance protocols. This tragic event also reminded the aviation industry of the importance of stringent safety measures, especially in regions with rapidly expanding air travel networks.