1 fatality

2017-05-30: Antonov AN-26 (RF-36160) — Russian Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily Rossii — Balashov, Russia

Balashov, RussiaLanding (descent or approach)

On May 30, 2017, an Antonov AN-26 (registration RF-36160) operated by Russian Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily Rossii was involved in an aviation accident near Balashov, Russia during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: During the approach, the instructor led the aircraft descending below MDA when he simulated an engine failure and positioned both power levers to idle. As a result of the failure of the propeller feathering system, the right engine stopped. 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 1781191859Data APIEditorial standards

During a training mission, a dual-registered aircraft (RF-36160, 79 red) descended below minimum descent altitude, stalled, and crashed in a field. One pilot under supervision was killed, five others injured.

Accident Details

A training flight operating at Balashov Airport in the Saratov region ended in a crash after performing multiple touch-and-go maneuvers. During a subsequent approach, the aircraft descended below the minimum descent altitude (MDA). At a speed of 240 km/h, it rolled to the right to an angle of 24°, stalled, and impacted terrain in a field approximately 1,100 meters from the airfield. The aircraft burst into flames upon impact.

Five occupants sustained injuries, while a pilot under supervision was killed. The aircraft carried dual registration RF-36160 and the number 79 red.

Crew

The crew consisted of Captain Y. Tereshin, Major S. Rodionov, Ensign Frolov, P. Halaimov, I. Makhmoudov, and M. Artemiev.

Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, during the approach the instructor led the aircraft below MDA while simulating an engine failure. Both power levers were set to idle. Due to a failure of the propeller feathering system, the right engine stopped. After 14 seconds, the instructor mistakenly shut down the left engine, which was operating correctly. As a result, the aircraft lost speed, stalled, and crashed.