Antonov AN-148 crash during test flight near Garbuzovo

6 fatalities • Garbuzovo, Russia • Flight

An Antonov AN-148 operated by the Voronezh Aircraft Production Association crashed during an emergency descent, resulting in the deaths of all six crew members.

What happened

During a morning test flight departing from Voronezh-Pridacha Airport, an Antonov AN-148 experienced a catastrophic structural failure. The flight was being conducted by the Voronezh Aircraft Production Association and carried a total of six crew members, including manufacturer pilots, engineers, and representatives from the Myanmar Air Force.

While in flight, the crew initiated an emergency descent maneuver. During this process, the aircraft accelerated to an excessive speed, which led to the separation of the elevators, stabilizers, and portions of the tail section. Following this structural disintegration, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent and struck a snow-covered field in the vicinity of Garbuzovo. The impact caused the aircraft to burst into flames, resulting in the total destruction of the airframe. All six fatalities occurred during the crash.

Following the accident, investigators located the detached tail components, including the stabilizers and elevators, approximately 3 km away from the primary impact site.

Findings

An investigation into the accident determined that the aircraft reached excessive speeds during the execution of an emergency descent, which caused the loss of critical flight control surfaces.

Probable cause

The aircraft reached speeds exceeding its structural limits during an emergency descent, causing the tail section to break apart.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2011-03-05 Antonov AN-148 accident near Garbuzovo, Russia?

An Antonov AN-148 operated by the Voronezh Aircraft Production Association crashed during an emergency descent, resulting in the deaths of all six crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 2011-03-05 Antonov AN-148 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2011-03-05 involved a Antonov AN-148, registration 61708, operated by Voronezh Aircraft Production Association - VASO Airlines, at Garbuzovo, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?