Incident Overview
An aviation incident occurred involving an Antonov An-26 transport aircraft that had been parked at Kubinka Air Force Base. The event was initiated by a flight engineer who stole the aircraft with the explicit intention of committing suicide.
Flight Details and Crash Sequence
Following the unauthorized departure, the pilot flew the AN-26 in circles over the surrounding area for a duration exceeding four hours. During this period, the aircraft maintained an altitude ranging between 300 and 2,000 feet. Eventually, the aircraft lost control and dove into the ground.
Impact Location and Casualties
The crash site was located in a field within the village of Lyakhovo. The flight engineer was the sole occupant on board at the time of the accident and was killed in the impact.
Technical Factors
Investigation findings indicate that both engines ceased operation due to fuel exhaustion. This mechanical failure likely contributed to the loss of control and the subsequent crash into the terrain.