Background
A cargo flight from Yakutsk conducted an approach to Ust-Kuyga during a polar night with an outside air temperature of −51°C.
Approach Deviation
On final approach, at a distance of 1,150 metres from the runway threshold, the aircraft deviated 150 metres to the right of the centreline. Air traffic control instructed the captain to initiate a go-around, but the captain decided to continue the approach.
Unstable Approach and Impact
The aircraft was unstable, with speed decreasing to 210 km/h. During the last segment, it lost altitude, causing the right main landing gear to strike the runway surface. On impact, the right main gear was torn off, followed shortly by the nose gear. The aircraft went out of control and slid for several dozen metres before coming to rest.
Occupants and Damage
All six occupants on board escaped uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Probable Cause
The official findings identified the following causes:
- Wrong approach configuration on part of the crew,
- The aircraft was unstable on approach,
- The approach speed of 210 km/h was insufficient (20 km/h below the prescribed speed),
- On the last segment, the aircraft rolled to the right following improper actions from the crew,
- The crew failed to initiate a go-around and ignored ATC instructions,
- The configuration adopted by the crew resulted in the aircraft making a deliberate descent to the right of the approach pattern.