9 fatalities

1982-03-15: Antonov AN-26 — Soviet Navy - Voyenno-morskoy flot CCCP — Anapa, Russia

Anapa, RussiaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 15, 1982, an Antonov AN-26 operated by Soviet Navy - Voyenno-morskoy flot CCCP was involved in an aviation accident near Anapa, Russia during landing or approach. 9 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Premature retraction of flaps after takeoff. 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 1781221723Data APIEditorial standards

Following a night takeoff from Anapa Airport, the crew prematurely retracted flaps, causing the aircraft to strike trees. After continuing to climb, the aircraft stalled and crashed near Vityazevo, killing all nine occupants.

Accident Sequence

A nighttime takeoff was conducted from Anapa Airport. After departure, the crew retracted the flaps prematurely. This premature retraction caused the aircraft to lose altitude and strike trees located 1,250 meters past the runway end and 150 meters to the right of its extended centerline. The collision damaged the left engine and stabilizer, but the crew managed to continue climbing.

Following the tree strike, the crew entered a short traffic pattern and began returning to the airport. During this return, the aircraft stalled and crashed into shallow water near Vityazevo, approximately 6 kilometers west of Anapa Airport. The accident occurred six minutes and 464 seconds after liftoff.

Damage and Fatalities

The aircraft was destroyed in the crash. All nine occupants on board were killed.

Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was the premature retraction of flaps after takeoff.