No fatalities

1972-11-21: Antonov AN-12 (CCCP-11360) — Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines — Vorkuta, Russia

Vorkuta, RussiaLanding (descent or approach)

On November 21, 1972, an Antonov AN-12 (registration CCCP-11360) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Vorkuta, Russia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew decided to continue the approach in below-minima weather conditions and the decision of the captain to attempt a go-around was taken too late. 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)Primary reportUpdated 1781233412Data APIEditorial standards

During a night approach to Vorkuta Airport in limited visibility, the captain initiated a go-around but the aircraft struck the ground, lost its undercarriage, and crashed into a ravine near the runway threshold. All eight occupants evacuated.

Accident Overview

En route from Moscow-Domodedovo to Amderma, the crew was informed about the deterioration of weather conditions in Amderma and was cleared to divert to Vorkuta Airport. While on a night approach with visibility limited to 850 meters, the captain was unable to locate the runway. The decision was made to initiate a go-around.

Incident Details

During the go-around maneuver, the aircraft struck the ground, losing its undercarriage, and subsequently crashed into a ravine located approximately 140 meters short of the runway threshold. The aircraft was destroyed. All eight occupants on board were evacuated from the wreckage.

Investigation Findings

The official probable cause of the accident is that the crew decided to continue the approach in below-minima weather conditions and that the decision of the captain to attempt a go-around was taken too late.