What happened
While performing a takeoff roll at Novy Urengoy-Yagelnoye Airport, the aircraft drifted right of the runway centerline before exiting the paved surface. During the excursion, the plane collided with an earthen embankment, which caused the separation of the undercarriage. Following the impact, a fire broke out and consumed the airframe.
All seven crew members successfully evacuated the wreckage. The occupants sustained only minor injuries, though the aircraft was completely destroyed by the subsequent flames.
Findings
Investigations into the accident concluded that the incident was caused by the crew's failure to adhere to pre-takeoff checklist procedures, specifically neglecting to ensure the nosewheel was set to a neutral position.