21 fatalities

1977-04-19: Antonov AN-24 — Soviet Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily CCCP — Tapa AFB, Estonia

Tapa AFB, EstoniaLanding (descent or approach)

On April 19, 1977, an Antonov AN-24 operated by Soviet Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily CCCP was involved in an aviation accident near Tapa AFB, Estonia during landing or approach. 21 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Poor planned approach on part of the flying crew. 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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781228065Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft on final approach to Tapa Air Base struck a chimney and crashed in flames, killing all 21 occupants. Poor visibility due to snow showers and a low altitude were factors.

Accident

The aircraft was completing a flight from Pärnu to Tapa Air Base. On board were six crew members and 15 Sukhoi SU-9 pilots, totaling 21 occupants. During the final approach, the crew encountered poor visibility caused by snow showers. The crew failed to realize that their altitude was too low, and a wing struck the chimney of a spirit factory. Subsequently, the aircraft went out of control and crashed in flames in a field located less than 3 km from the runway threshold, in Moe.

Damage and Fatalities

The aircraft was destroyed in the impact and ensuing fire. All 21 occupants were killed.

Investigation and Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a poor planned approach on the part of the flying crew.