What happened
A flight traveling from Ostafyevo Air Force Base toward Tiksi, with planned stops in Ryazan and Vorkuta, was forced to divert to Amderma due to adverse weather. The aircraft, a four-engine aircraft, was transporting seven crew members and 15 passengers, along with 6 tons of communication and plumbing equipment.
During the approach to Amderma, the crew encountered difficult weather conditions and began their descent ahead of schedule. While on final approach, the aircraft struck an ammunition depot and crashed into a snow-covered field approximately 1,500 meters before reaching the runway. The impact caused the aircraft to burst into flames. The accident resulted in 20 fatalities and left two passengers seriously injured.
Findings
- The crew initiated a premature descent while approaching Amderma.
- Poor weather conditions necessitated the initial diversion from the flight path.
- The aircraft's path led to a collision with an ammunition depot prior to the final crash site.