Night Departure Accident in Wooded Area Near Dhzigda (CCCP-55541)

Incident Overview and Departure Delayed by Technical Issues and Poor Visibility The source states that a departure from Dhzigda was postponed after sunset because of technical issues with the onboard heating system. Despite poor visibility, the pilot decided to take off around 2030LT. After liftoff, the airplane continued at low height and turned slightly to the right when control was lost. The aircraft banked right to an angle of 25°, then stalled and crashed at a speed of 220 km/h in a wooded area located 3.5 km from the airfield. The wreckage was found two days later, and all three occupants were killed. ## Official Findings and Contributing Factors The official findings determined that the pilot lost control of the aircraft after suffering spatial disorientation. It was also noted that the pilot decided to take off at night with an aircraft that was not equipped for night flight. Both the departure and destination airports were not suitable for night operations. The source added that the pilot's capabilities may have been reduced due to the low temperature on board because the heating system was inoperative. The assumption that the artificial horizon was unserviceable due to low temperature was not ruled out.