Aircraft ground impact during final approach

No fatalities • Ust-Kuyga, Russia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft struck a runway surface after an abrupt reduction in engine power during the final segment of flight, resulting in significant damage but no injuries.

What happened

During the final stage of the flight, the pilot-in-command performed a sudden decrease in engine power. This action led to a loss of altitude, causing the aircraft to strike the runway surface. Following the impact, the aircraft slid for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop.

There were no injuries reported among the occupants, all of whom managed to exit the aircraft safely. However, the structural damage sustained during the impact was severe enough that the aircraft was declared a total loss.

Findings

The investigation identified that the primary reason for the accident was an excessive reduction of engine power while on final approach. Several secondary factors contributed to the incident:

  • The airspeed during the approach was insufficient
  • There was evidence of confusion among the flying crew
  • The crew failed to properly compensate for wind components
  • The available runway length was limited

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an excessive reduction in engine power during the final approach phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1977-08-18 Antonov AN-26 accident near Ust-Kuyga, Russia?

An aircraft struck a runway surface after an abrupt reduction in engine power during the final segment of flight, resulting in significant damage but no injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1977-08-18 Antonov AN-26 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1977-08-18 involved a Antonov AN-26, registration CCCP-26536, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Ust-Kuyga, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by an excessive reduction in engine power during the final approach phase.

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