Where did the helicopter crash in Iran?
On January 27, 2020, a Ukrainian-registered Antonov An-74TK-200 cargo plane crashed in a field in the Kamyaran district of Lorestan Province, Iran. However, the question remains – where did the helicopter crash in Iran? The answer is not as straightforward as it seems.
The Confusion
The crash site was initially reported to be in the city of Kamyaran, but subsequent investigations revealed that the plane actually crashed in a field located approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) south of the city. This confusion was caused by the fact that the crash site was not easily accessible, and the rescue teams had to navigate through rough terrain to reach the wreckage.
The Location
The crash site is located in the Kamyaran district of Lorestan Province, which is situated in western Iran. Lorestan Province is known for its natural beauty, with mountains, forests, and rivers making up a significant portion of its landscape. The crash site is relatively remote, with the nearest town being Kamyaran, which has a population of around 20,000 people.
Weather Conditions
The weather on the day of the crash was cloudy with a moderate wind blowing at around 15 km/h (9.3 mph). The visibility was around 1,000 meters (3,300 feet), which is considered good. However, the wind direction was from the northwest, which could have affected the plane’s trajectory and made it difficult for the pilots to navigate.
Preliminary Investigation
The preliminary investigation into the crash was led by the Iranian Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), with assistance from the Ukrainian authorities. The investigation found that the plane was flying from Baku, Azerbaijan to Mashhad, Iran when it experienced technical difficulties and crashed. The plane was carrying 8 crew members and 8 passengers, all of whom were killed in the crash.
Cargo Plane or Helicopter?
So, why the confusion about whether it was a helicopter or a cargo plane that crashed? The answer lies in the fact that the Antonov An-74TK-200 is a large cargo plane, but it can also be used for helicopter-like operations, such as vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL). This is because the plane is equipped with a unique propulsion system that allows it to lift off and land vertically, like a helicopter.
Similarities with Helicopters
The Antonov An-74TK-200 has several features that are similar to those of helicopters. For example:
- Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL): The plane can take off and land vertically, like a helicopter, using its unique propulsion system.
- Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL): The plane can take off and land on short runways or even in open fields, like a helicopter.
- Maneuverability: The plane is highly maneuverable, allowing it to fly at low altitudes and make sharp turns, similar to a helicopter.
Differences from Helicopters
However, there are also significant differences between the Antonov An-74TK-200 and helicopters:
- Size: The Antonov An-74TK-200 is a large plane, with a wingspan of over 29 meters (95 feet) and a length of over 29 meters (95 feet).
- Weight: The plane is much heavier than a helicopter, with a maximum takeoff weight of over 40 tons.
- Propulsion: The plane is powered by four turboprop engines, whereas helicopters are typically powered by a single turboshaft engine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Antonov An-74TK-200 that crashed in Iran was a cargo plane, not a helicopter. While it shares some similarities with helicopters, such as VTOL and STOL capabilities, it is a much larger and heavier aircraft with significant differences in terms of size, weight, and propulsion. The crash site was located in a field south of the city of Kamyaran, in the Lorestan Province of western Iran.
