Aircraft collision with terrain during approach to Baranikha

No fatalities • Baranikha, Russia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft operating a special flight from Pevek struck a snow-covered hill while descending toward Baranikha, resulting in significant damage but no fatalities.

What happened

A special flight departed from Peeks under favorable meteorological conditions, characterized by high cloud cover and visibility reaching 20 km. As the aircraft approached its destination of Baranikly, weather conditions worsened significantly due to falling snow, which reduced visibility to approximately 5 km.

During the descent to an altitude of 330 meters, the aircraft impacted a hill covered in snow. The force of the impact caused the left ski of the landing gear to be ripped from the structure. Following the collision, the plane traveled a short distance before the nose pitched downward and came to a stop in the snow. While the two pilots escaped the incident without injury, the aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.

Findings

An investigation into the accident found no evidence of mechanical failure, engine malfunctions, or issues with onboard equipment. The primary factor identified was that the pilot significantly reduced engine power during the approach, which led to a critical loss of airspeed and altitude.

Probable cause

The pilot's excessive reduction of engine power during the approach caused the aircraft to lose necessary speed and altitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1966-02-21 Antonov AN-2 accident near Baranikha, Russia?

An aircraft operating a special flight from Pevek struck a snow-covered hill while descending toward Baranikha, resulting in significant damage but no fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1966-02-21 Antonov AN-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1966-02-21 involved a Antonov AN-2, registration CCCP-79943, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Baranikha, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?