On April 16, 1974, an Antonov AN-2 (registration CCCP-33085) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Kutaisi, Georgia in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft lost sufficient altitude to crash after being caught in a downdraft while flying over mountainous terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A single-engine aircraft crashed in mountainous terrain near Kutaisi following an encounter with a downdraft.
What happened
During a flight over the mountains located near Kutaisi, a single-engine aircraft encountered severe atmospheric conditions. While navigating the high-altitude landscape, the aircraft was struck by a powerful downdraft. This sudden downward movement of air caused the plane to lose critical altitude.
Unable to maintain its flight path, the aircraft impacted the ground in the mountainous region. Despite the impact, there were no fatalities or injuries reported following the accident.
Findings
The primary factor in the loss of altitude was an encounter with a downdraft during the flight.
Probable cause
The aircraft lost sufficient altitude to crash after being caught in a downdraft while flying over mountainous terrain.
What happened in the 16 Apr 1974 Antonov AN-2 accident near Kutaisi, Georgia?
A single-engine aircraft crashed in mountainous terrain near Kutaisi following an encounter with a downdraft.
Were there any fatalities in the 16 Apr 1974 Antonov AN-2 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Apr 1974 involved an Antonov AN-2, registration CCCP-33085, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Kutaisi, Georgia.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft lost sufficient altitude to crash after being caught in a downdraft while flying over mountainous terrain.
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