Aircraft crash near Moe during approach to Tapa Air Base

21 fatalities • Tapa AFB, Estonia • Landing (descent or approach)

A flight from Pärnu to Tapa AFB crashed in a field near Moe, resulting in the deaths of all 21 people on board.

What happened

A transport flight traveling from Pärun to Tapa Air Base was carrying a total of 21 occupants, including six crew members and 15 pilots of the Sukhoi SU-9. While performing the final approach to the airfield, the aircraft encountered heavy snow showers that significantly reduced visibility.

During this phase of flight, the wing of the plane made contact with a chimney belonging to a spirit factory. This impact caused the aircraft to lose control and descend into an open field located within 3 km of the runway threshold in Moe. The resulting crash led to a fire that destroyed the airframe. There were 21 fatalities and no survivors.

Findings

The investigation determined that the accident was driven by a poorly planned approach executed by the flight crew, which left them unaware of their dangerously low altitude during the period of low visibility.

Probable cause

The flight crew conducted an inadequately planned approach during periods of reduced visibility.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1977-04-19 Antonov AN-24 accident near Tapa AFB, Estonia?

A flight from Pärnu to Tapa AFB crashed in a field near Moe, resulting in the deaths of all 21 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1977-04-19 Antonov AN-24 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 21 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1977-04-19 involved a Antonov AN-24, operated by Soviet Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily CCCP, at Tapa AFB, Estonia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The flight crew conducted an inadequately planned approach during periods of reduced visibility.

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