Fatal crash of cargo aircraft near Surgut during night approach

7 fatalities • Surgut, Russia • Landing (descent or approach)

An Ilyushin Il-76 cargo flight operating between Tyumen and Surgut crashed into an icy lake during its final approach, resulting in the deaths of all seven people on board.

What happened

A cargo flight traveling from Tyumen to Surgut was conducting a night approach when the aircraft experienced sudden instability. The flight was transporting 12 tons of herring and included six crew members and one passenger. While flying at an altitude of approximately 400 meters and a speed of 330 km/h, the captain requested a configuration change to flaps 15. Following this command, the aircraft began oscillating with left and right rolls.

Shortly after the instability began, the plane entered a nose-down descent. The airspeed increased to 395 km/h before the aircraft impacted an icy lake at a 90-degree left bank. The impact occurred roughly 13.6 km from the runway threshold. The crash resulted in seven fatalities and the total destruction of the Ilyushin Il-76.

Findings

Investigations concluded that the primary reason for the accident was a loss of control resulting from excessive ice buildup on the wing tips. Several contributing elements were identified during the inquiry, including the presence of severe icing conditions during the flight. Additionally, the crew's management of de-icing systems was noted as a factor, specifically regarding the use of engine air bleeding.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost control due to significant ice accumulation on the wing tips.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-01-31 Antonov AN-12 accident near Surgut, Russia?

An Ilyushin Il-76 cargo flight operating between Tyumen and Surgut crashed into an icy lake during its final approach, resulting in the deaths of all seven people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-01-31 Antonov AN-12 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 7 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-01-31 involved a Antonov AN-12, registration CCCP-12996, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Surgut, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost control due to significant ice accumulation on the wing tips.

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