Background
The crew was assigned to a spraying mission for a local sovkhoz (state farm) situated between the villages of Pryutovo and Aksakovo. The night preceding the accident, the crew did not obtain adequate rest. They conducted several crop spraying flights during the morning. During the lunch break, the crew consumed a large quantity of vodka alongside local farmers. In the afternoon, they resumed flight operations with illegal passengers onboard.
Accident Sequence
While flying at an altitude of approximately 10 to 15 meters, the aircraft executed a left bank of 50 degrees. It subsequently struck the ground in a field. The captain and one passenger were killed; the other seven occupants suffered serious injuries.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause was loss of control in flight due to an intoxicated crew whose capacities were impaired by alcohol consumption. The crew's decision to embark seven farmers for a local tour was considered non-compliant with regulations.