Incident Overview
A supply mission aircraft crashed while approaching the Arctic expedition 'Sever', located on a drifting ice floe near the North Pole at coordinates N89.1500 W90.0000. During the final approach, at a height of approximately 15 meters, the aircraft unexpectedly pitched down and impacted the ice, subsequently catching fire. The aircraft was quickly destroyed by the ensuing blaze.
Occupants and Injuries
All five occupants on board were able to evacuate the cabin. According to the investigation, they sustained minor injuries as a result of the crash.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the loss of control during final approach was apparently caused by an error on the part of a crew member. The crew member mistakenly activated the reverse thrust system, which led to the aircraft pitching down and crashing.
Aircraft Details
The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, engine count, or operator. No information regarding the time of day, weather conditions, or air traffic control involvement was provided.
Conclusion
The accident resulted in the complete destruction of the aircraft by fire, with all occupants sustaining minor injuries. The investigation attributed the accident to the inadvertent activation of the reverse thrust system during approach.