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Hydraulic failure leads to runway excursion at Vorkuta (RA-72960)

Vorkuta, RussiaTakeoff (climb)

On October 23, 1994, an Antonov AN-72 (registration RA-72960) operated by Federal Border Guard Aviation Command was involved in an aviation accident near Vorkuta, Russia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A hydraulic failure in the left engine caused the aircraft to deviate from the runway during takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced a hydraulic failure during takeoff at Vorkuta, resulting in a runway excursion and subsequent fire.

What happened

While performing a takeoff roll at Vorkuta, the aircraft experienced a mechanical malfunction involving the left engine's hydraulic system. This failure caused the flight crew to lose directional control of the plane. As a result, the aircraft veered toward the left side of the runway and exited the paved surface.

Following the excursion, the aircraft came to a stop and caught fire. Despite the intensity of the flames, all 34 occupants managed to evacuate the aircraft without sustaining any injuries. However, the aircraft itself was completely destroyed during the incident.

Findings

  • A hydraulic failure occurred within the left engine during the takeoff phase.
  • The loss of hydraulic pressure contributed to the loss of directional control.

Probable cause

A hydraulic failure in the left engine caused the aircraft to deviate from the runway during takeoff.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Oct 1994 Antonov AN-72 accident near Vorkuta, Russia?

An aircraft experienced a hydraulic failure during takeoff at Vorkuta, resulting in a runway excursion and subsequent fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 23 Oct 1994 Antonov AN-72 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Oct 1994 involved an Antonov AN-72, registration RA-72960, operated by Federal Border Guard Aviation Command, at Vorkuta, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A hydraulic failure in the left engine caused the aircraft to deviate from the runway during takeoff.

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