No fatalities

Night Cargo Flight Crash Near Saransk (RA-46401)

Saransk-Intl, RussiaLanding (descent or approach)

On December 29, 1995, an Antonov AN-24 (registration RA-46401) operated by Saransk Flight Unit was involved in an aviation accident near Saransk-Intl, Russia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo aircraft crashed near Saransk during a night flight from Tolyatti. The left wingtip struck the ground on final approach, injuring all five crew members and destroying the aircraft.

Incident Overview A cargo aircraft was operating a night flight from Tolyatti to Saransk when it crashed during final approach. The accident occurred a few kilometers from the runway threshold, resulting in significant damage to the aircraft and injuries to the entire crew. ## Approach and Impact During the final approach, the crew was executing a last turn to align with the approach path. At this stage, the left wingtip made contact with the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable, leading to a crash shortly before reaching the runway. ## Casualties and Damage All five crew members on board were injured in the accident. The aircraft sustained damage that was assessed as beyond repair, rendering it unserviceable.