Fatal aircraft crash near Klyuchi Airport

35 fatalities • Klyuchi, Russia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a wooded area during its approach to Klyuchi Airport following heavy snowfall, resulting in 35 fatalities.

What happened

During a flight originating from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky Airport, the crew initiated their descent toward Klyuchi Airport. As the aircraft approached the destination, the flight crew encountered weather conditions characterized by heavy snowfall, which reduced visibility to levels below established minimums.

While performing the final approach, the aircraft type (unspecified) descended beneath the glide path. The plane subsequently collided with treetops before crashing within a forested region. The accident resulted in the deaths of 35 people, including all 6 crew members and 29 passengers (identified as conscripts). Two passengers survived the impact.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary factor in the accident was an incorrect approach configuration maintained by the flight crew during the descent.

Probable cause

The flight crew failed to maintain the proper approach configuration during the final descent.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1983-05-06 Antonov AN-26 accident near Klyuchi, Russia?

An aircraft crashed into a wooded area during its approach to Klyuchi Airport following heavy snowfall, resulting in 35 fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1983-05-06 Antonov AN-26 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 35 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-05-06 involved a Antonov AN-26, registration 01, operated by Soviet Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily CCCP, at Klyuchi, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The flight crew failed to maintain the proper approach configuration during the final descent.

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