On June 7, 2014, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration RF-02883) operated by Private Russia was involved in an aviation accident near Starosel'ye, Russia during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crash was caused by the pilot's decision to depart from a closed airstrip without notifying air traffic control, leading to an uncontrolled flight into terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A small aircraft crashed into a wooded area shortly after departing Starosel'ye Airfield, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.
What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from Starosel'ye Airfield, the aircraft struck trees before entering a stall and crashing into a nearby forest. The impact was followed by a significant post-crash fire that completely destroyed the airframe. There were two fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft.
Investigations into the incident revealed that the aircraft, identified by registration RF-02883, was not listed on the Russian Aviation Register, and the registration itself was not recognized by aviation authorities. Additionally, the pilot operated from an airstrip that had been closed to all traffic and failed to notify Air Traffic Control regarding the flight plan or departure.
Findings
The pilot performed a takeoff from an unauthorized, closed airstrip.
The flight was conducted without notifying Air Traffic Control.
The aircraft registration RF-02883 was unregistered and unknown to the relevant authorities.
Probable cause
The crash was caused by the pilot's decision to depart from a closed airstrip without notifying air traffic control, leading to an uncontrolled flight into terrain.