Investigation Underway Into Ankara Plane Crash That Killed Libya’s Army Chief

An investigation has been launched into the Ankara plane crash that killed Libya’s army chief and seven others. Authorities are examining the black box, pilot conditions, maintenance records, fuel, and weather, while autopsies and toxicology tests continue. The probe may expand if structural or design flaws are identified.

An investigation has been launched into the plane crash that killed Libya's army chief and seven others on Tuesday, according to sources and officials who spoke to Anadolu. The inquiry is being coordinated by a deputy chief public prosecutor along with four public prosecutors.
The aircraft involved was a Falcon 50-type business jet that crashed shortly after taking off from Ankara’s Esenboga Airport, en route to Tripoli, the Libyan capital. The wreckage was discovered about 2 kilometres south of Kesikkavak village in the Haymana district of Ankara province.
As part of the investigation, the crash site has been secured within a protective perimeter to preserve evidence. All wreckage pieces have been collected, with particular attention given to the aircraft’s black box, considered the most critical piece of evidence in understanding the cause of the crash. Autopsies and toxicology tests are ongoing at the Ankara Forensic Medicine Institute Group Directorate to determine the exact causes of death of those on board. Investigators are also examining the circumstances surrounding the pilots prior to the incident, including sleep patterns, meals, potential use of alcohol or medication, and their psychological state.
In addition, technical experts have been requested to submit reports to determine whether the aircraft was fit to fly. The responsibility and potential errors of the personnel involved in the aircraft’s most recent maintenance are under close scrutiny. Airport camera recordings have been seized, and all radio communications between the control tower and the aircraft have been added to the case file. Technical examinations will also assess whether the spare parts installed during maintenance complied with required safety standards.
Samples have been taken from both the fuel tanker and the wreckage to rule out fuel contamination or the use of incorrect fuel. Local weather reports at the time of the crash have also been requested to understand any environmental factors that may have contributed. Authorities have indicated that if the investigation determines the crash was caused by a structural failure or design flaw, the scope of responsibility will be expanded to include relevant parties. Every aspect of the flight, maintenance, and operational procedures is being carefully examined to ensure a thorough and comprehensive investigation.