Fatal crash during positioning flight near Vinnitsa

2 fatalities • Velikaya Vulyga, Ukraine • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed and caught fire shortly after takeoff during a repositioning flight, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

Following the completion of crop-spraying duties, an aircraft was performing a positioning flight from Velikaya Vulyga to Vinnitsa. During the initial climb, reaching an altitude of approximately 10 to 15 meters, the plane lost altitude and struck the ground roughly 500 meters from its parking area. The impact triggered a fire that completely destroyed the aircraft.

There were two fatalities involving the crew members on board, which consisted of the pilot and an aircraft mechanic. Investigations revealed that the flight controls had not been properly configured for flight, as the clamps on the rudder and stabilizer remained attached during the departure sequence.

Findings

Post-accident analysis determined that both crew members were operating under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. The pilot's blood alcohol concentration was measured at 1.84 ‰, while the mechanic's level was 1.24 ‰. The primary factor in the accident was improper pre-flight inspections, specifically the failure to release the control surface clamps before takeoff.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to conduct a proper pre-flight check, leaving the rudder and stabilizer clamps engaged during departure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-09-10 Antonov AN-2 accident near Velikaya Vulyga, Ukraine?

An aircraft crashed and caught fire shortly after takeoff during a repositioning flight, resulting in two fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-09-10 Antonov AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1972-09-10 involved a Antonov AN-2, registration CCCP-02369, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Velikaya Vulyga, Ukraine.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to conduct a proper pre-flight check, leaving the rudder and stabilizer clamps engaged during departure.

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