What happened
On May 16, an unnamed single engine aircraft departed from an airstrip near Podovinnoe Farm in the Chelyabinsk region at approximately 14:00LT. The flight was part of a mission to apply fertilizer to crops, which had been ongoing since May 14. During the preceding days, including the evenings of May 12 and May 15, the crew engaged in heavy consumption of vodka and red wine.
On the morning of the accident, the four-person crew consumed more alcohol during breakfast before proceeding to the aircraft. The flight included four additional passengers, including two young girls, who were not authorized to be on board. Despite warnings from a local keeper attempting to prevent the departure, the aircraft took off. Shortly after takeoff, the plane reached an altitude of roughly 60 meters and maintained a heading of 110° for approximately two to three minutes. The aircraft then entered a sudden dive, crashing into a field located six kilometers from the airfield. The impact resulted in eight fatalities and the total destruction of the aircraft.
Findings
Investigations concluded that the primary cause of the accident was the extreme intoxication of the entire flight crew, which rendered them incapable of operating the aircraft safely. Additionally, investigators noted a significant lack of professional discipline and responsibility, specifically regarding the decision to fly despite their condition and the violation of company protocols by carrying unauthorized passengers.