What happened
During a nighttime test flight departing from Bagerovo Airbase, an aircraft experienced a severe mid-air collision with a bird. The impact occurred while the plane was operating at a low altitude over the Sea of Azov. This collision resulted in the destruction of the cockpit windshield and rendered the pilot unable to control the aircraft.
Following the loss of control, the plane descended rapidly and crashed into Kazantip Bay, situated near cape Chagany. The accident resulted in 6 fatalities among the crew members on board.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the primary factor leading to the crash was a bird strike that incapacitated the flight crew by shattering the windshield.