Ankara, December 24 – A private jet carrying a Libyan delegation crashed near Ankara, Turkey, on Wednesday evening. The wreckage of the Falcon 50 type aircraft, with tail number 9H-DFJ, was found in the Kesikkavak village of the Haymana district, approximately two kilometers south of the village. All individuals on board are feared to have perished in the incident.
Investigation Launched by Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office
The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an investigation into the plane crash. A team of four public prosecutors, coordinated by one Deputy Chief Public Prosecutor, has been assigned to the case. This rapid response underscores the seriousness of the incident and the authorities’ commitment to determining its cause.
According to official statements, the aircraft departed from Ankara Esenboğa Airport at 8:10 PM local time. Contact with the plane was lost at 8:52 PM. Shortly before communication ceased, the aircraft reportedly issued a ‘mayday’ call to Esenboğa Airport, indicating an emergency situation.
High-Profile Passengers on Board
The private jet was transporting a high-level Libyan delegation, including General Muhammed Ali Ahmed Al-Haddad, Chief of General Staff of Libya. Libyan Prime Minister Dibeybe confirmed the news, stating, “We have received news of the passing of Haddad and his advisor, the Commander of the Land Forces, and the Director of the Manufacturing/Production Corporation.” This tragic event marks a significant loss for Libya.
Eyewitness Accounts and Search Efforts
Bekir Taner, an eyewitness to the crash, described hearing a loud noise before rushing to the scene. He participated in the search and rescue operations with emergency teams, eventually reaching the wreckage. The rapid deployment of gendarmerie forces led to the swift discovery of the crash site in Haymana.
Impact on Airport Operations and Future Steps
Following the incident, flights at Esenboğa Airport were temporarily canceled. However, operations have since resumed. The Turkish Minister of Interior, Ali Yerlikaya, confirmed the discovery of the wreckage by the gendarmerie. The Minister of Justice, Tunç, reiterated that a comprehensive investigation is underway.
The focus of the investigation will be to ascertain the exact cause of the crash, which remains unknown at this time. Authorities will examine flight data recorders, wreckage, and air traffic control communications to piece together the sequence of events leading to the tragedy. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, and condolences have been extended to the families of the victims and the Libyan government.
Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses. The incident highlights the inherent risks of air travel and the critical importance of aviation safety protocols.
