Turkish authorities are investigating the tragic plane crash near Ankara that claimed the life of Libyan Chief of Staff, Mohammed al-Haddad, and his entourage. Experts and former officials are considering various potential causes, with a technical malfunction emerging as the leading theory at this early stage.
Jahid Tuz, a former advisor to the Turkish Prime Minister and Middle East affairs expert, stated that initial reports indicate the aircraft requested an emergency landing approximately 35 minutes after taking off from Ankara. Communication was then lost, and the plane crashed in the Haymana district, about half an hour from the capital.
Tuz explained that while all nearby airports were prepared to receive the aircraft, there was insufficient time for a landing. He suggested a possible malfunction in the plane’s electronic systems, which is a primary focus of the ongoing expert investigation. However, he cautioned against drawing definitive conclusions at this time.
“While all scenarios remain open given the current regional and international climate,” Tuz noted, “initial indicators suggest a possible internal technical fault. Turkish authorities will release accurate information upon completion of the investigation.” Four public prosecutors have been appointed to oversee the inquiry.
Former Turkish presidential advisor, Nur Shafiq, described the incident as a profound tragedy, emphasizing the deep sorrow within official circles in Ankara given Libya’s close and friendly relationship with Turkey. He confirmed that the pilot reported a technical fault and requested to return to Ankara airport before the plane disappeared from radar screens and crashed in the Haymana region. The crash was followed by a large explosion, likely caused by ignited fuel, scattering debris across a wide area.
The investigation will include a thorough examination of the aircraft’s maintenance history, the responsible parties, and a review of the ground crew’s role and technical procedures. Shafiq emphasized that the investigation will be comprehensive and detailed.
