Engine failure and crash during takeoff from Srednekolymsk Airport

No fatalities • Srednekolymsk, Russia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced an engine fire and subsequent crash-landing shortly after departing Srednekolymsk Airport, resulting in the destruction of the plane but no fatalities.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Sredlarnekomsk Airport, the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 150 meters when the engine began to misfire. This malfunction led to a significant loss of power and the appearance of flames emerging from the right side of the engine compartment.

In response to the emergency, the crew attempted to perform an unplanned landing. However, during the procedure, the battery was accidentally deactivated, which prevented the pilot from deploying the flaps. Consequently, the aircraft type impacted the ground at a high rate of speed. The impact caused the undercarriage and the lower portions of the wings to detach, and the fuselage eventually broke into two separate pieces. While the aircraft was completely destroyed, all five occupants were successfully rescued from the wreckage without loss of life.

Findings

Investigations conducted by the State Research Institute of Civil Aviation determined that the engine failure originated from a malfunction in the rear spark plug of the second cylinder. Specifically, the central electrode detached from the plug because the insulator failed due to internal stresses and a microcrack formed during the manufacturing process. The investigation concluded that the accident was caused by a defect in the design and production of the spark plug.

Probable cause

A manufacturing defect in the spark plug's insulator caused the central electrode to fall out, leading to engine misfire and fire.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1977-10-18 Antonov AN-2 accident near Srednekolymsk, Russia?

An aircraft experienced an engine fire and subsequent crash-landing shortly after departing Srednekolymsk Airport, resulting in the destruction of the plane but no fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1977-10-18 Antonov AN-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1977-10-18 involved a Antonov AN-2, registration CCCP-55625, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Srednekolymsk, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A manufacturing defect in the spark plug's insulator caused the central electrode to fall out, leading to engine misfire and fire.

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