No fatalities

Engine Power Reduction on Final Results in Hard Landing and Total Loss (CCCP-26536)

Ust-Kuyga, RussiaLanding (descent or approach)

On August 18, 1977, an Antonov AN-26 (registration CCCP-26536) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Ust-Kuyga, Russia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An excessive reduction of the engine power on final caused the aircraft to lose altitude and to roughly struck the runway surface. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

On final approach, an abrupt engine power reduction caused the aircraft to lose altitude and strike the runway. All occupants were uninjured, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Incident Summary

During the final segment of the approach, the pilot-in-command abruptly reduced the engine power. This caused the aircraft to lose altitude and strike the runway surface with considerable force. After impact, the aircraft rolled for several dozen meters before coming to rest. All occupants escaped uninjured, but the aircraft was considered damaged beyond repair.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be an excessive reduction of engine power on final, which led to a loss of altitude and a rough impact with the runway. The investigation also reported the following contributing factors:

  • Insufficient approach speed
  • Confusion by the flying crew
  • Incorrect compensation of the wind component
  • Limited runway length

The combination of these factors resulted in the aircraft making contact with the runway surface at a higher than normal descent rate, leading to substantial damage. The aircraft rolled a short distance before stopping. All occupants were able to exit without harm.