No fatalities

Aircraft Breaks in Two After Veering Off Snow-Covered Runway During Takeoff (CCCP-11338)

Magadan, RussiaTakeoff (climb)

On April 2, 1963, an Antonov AN-12 (registration CCCP-11338) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Magadan, Russia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed the accident was the consequence of a poor takeoff preparation on part of the crew who misaligned the aircraft on the runway and adopted poor takeoff techniques. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff on a snow-covered runway, the aircraft lost control, veered right, hit a snow bank, and broke in two. All occupants evacuated safely. Investigation cited poor takeoff preparation and misalignment.

Incident Overview

During the takeoff roll on a snow-covered runway, the aircraft went out of control. It veered off the runway to the right, collided with a snow bank, and came to rest broken in two. All occupants evacuated the aircraft safely. The aircraft was subsequently written off as a total loss.

Investigation Findings

Investigators determined that the accident was the consequence of poor takeoff preparation on the part of the crew. Specifically, the crew misaligned the aircraft on the runway and adopted poor takeoff techniques. No other factors were cited in the official findings.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft commenced its takeoff roll under snowy conditions. Shortly after beginning the roll, the aircraft departed the paved surface, veering to the right. It continued across the snow-covered terrain until striking a snow bank, which caused structural failure, splitting the aircraft into two sections. The aircraft came to rest in that configuration.

Occupant Safety

All occupants on board exited the aircraft without injury or harm. Emergency services were not required for medical evacuation. The aircraft, however, sustained substantial damage beyond economical repair.

Operational Context

The accident occurred on a snow-covered runway, which may have affected braking and directional control. The investigation focused on the crew's actions during takeoff preparation and execution.

Probable cause

It is believed the accident was the consequence of a poor takeoff preparation on part of the crew who misaligned the aircraft on the runway and adopted poor takeoff techniques.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Apr 1963 Antonov AN-12 accident near Magadan, Russia?

During takeoff on a snow-covered runway, the aircraft lost control, veered right, hit a snow bank, and broke in two. All occupants evacuated safely. Investigation cited poor takeoff preparation and misalignment.

Were there any fatalities in the 2 Apr 1963 Antonov AN-12 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Apr 1963 involved an Antonov AN-12, registration CCCP-11338, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Magadan, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

It is believed the accident was the consequence of a poor takeoff preparation on part of the crew who misaligned the aircraft on the runway and adopted poor takeoff techniques.