Loss of AN-2 cargo aircraft near Mount Karpung

3 fatalities • Mt Karpung, Russia • Flight

An Antonov AN-2 cargo flight operating between Pevek and Palyavam disappeared in February, resulting in the deaths of all three people on board.

What happened

On a scheduled cargo mission departing Pevek at approximately 10:15 local time, an Antonov AN-2 was en route to Palyavam. The flight was transporting a payload of explosive ammonite and carried a crew consisting of two pilots and one passenger. During the approach to the destination, another aircraft operating the same model notified air traffic control that landing at Palyavam was not possible due to deteriorating weather conditions and subsequently diverted back to Pevek.

Following this report, controllers attempted to establish communication with CCCP-47645, but the aircraft failed to respond. After the plane was officially classified as missing, search and rescue teams were deployed to the region. On February 26, investigators located the wreckage on the slopes of Mount Karpung, situated at an elevation of 450 meters. The crash site was approximately 140 km southeast of Pevek and roughly 20 km away from the flight's intended path. The impact resulted in the destruction of the aircraft and three fatalities.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the accident likely occurred because the crew attempted to maintain visual flight rules while flying in instrument meteorological conditions characterized by low cloud cover. Several contributing elements were identified, including inadequate flight organization and insufficient preparation for the mission. Additionally, investigators noted that an inaccurate weather forecast and a lack of adequate assistance from air traffic control played roles in the sequence of events.

Probable cause

The crew's decision to continue flight under visual flight rules despite encountering low cloud cover and instrument meteorological conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1962-02-21 Antonov AN-2 accident near Mt Karpung, Russia?

An Antonov AN-2 cargo flight operating between Pevek and Palyavam disappeared in February, resulting in the deaths of all three people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1962-02-21 Antonov AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1962-02-21 involved a Antonov AN-2, registration CCCP-47645, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Mt Karpung, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew's decision to continue flight under visual flight rules despite encountering low cloud cover and instrument meteorological conditions.

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