Flight Details
The aircraft departed Seymchan at 0305LT on a geological survey flight in the region of the Byelaya Noch and Popovka Rivers. After performing maneuvers at an altitude of 760 meters and a speed of 250 km/h, the crew reduced speed to 80 km/h while approaching a mountain with a 40° slope.
Accident Sequence
As the aircraft approached the mountain, its tail wheel struck the ground. This caused the aircraft to drift downward and impact the mountain. The pilot executed a left turn to bring the aircraft back into the descent direction to increase speed. However, the aircraft bounced three times. During the third impact, the aircraft came to rest in flames.
Occupant Injuries and Damage
The mechanic and navigator were ejected from the cockpit and killed instantly. All four occupants were slightly injured. The aircraft was destroyed.
Investigation
The official investigation determined that the probable cause was poor decisions on the part of the pilot-in-command, who, by negligence and lack of discipline, engaged the aircraft in hazardous maneuvers near a mountainous area.