Aircraft excursion during takeoff near Moscow

No fatalities • Ivanovo-Severny, Russia • Takeoff (climb)

A VIP-configured aircraft veered off the runway and sustained heavy damage following the deployment of a thrust reverser shortly after liftoff.

What happened

During the initial climb phase, approximately 3 meters above the ground, the left engine's thrust reverser unexpectedly deployed. This malfunction forced the crew to initiate an aborted takeoff procedure. During the high-speed deceleration, the aircraft type lost directional control and exited the runway, eventually coming to a stop in an adjacent field. The impact was severe enough that the cockpit area became partially detached from the rest of the fuselage.

There were five people on board at the time of the incident. The accident resulted in five injuries, with both the pilot and the co-pilot sustaining serious injuries. The aircraft, which was operating in a specialized VIP configuration, was declared a total loss due to damage beyond repair.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the loss of control was the unintended deployment of the thrust reverser on the left engine immediately after liftoff.

Probable cause

The unexpected deployment of the left engine thrust reverser during the takeoff roll caused the aircraft to veer off the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2010-03-30 Antonov AN-74 accident near Ivanovo-Severny, Russia?

A VIP-configured aircraft veered off the runway and sustained heavy damage following the deployment of a thrust reverser shortly after liftoff.

Were there any fatalities in the 2010-03-30 Antonov AN-74 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2010-03-30 involved a Antonov AN-74, registration RA-74017, operated by Polartrans, at Ivanovo-Severny, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The unexpected deployment of the left engine thrust reverser during the takeoff roll caused the aircraft to veer off the runway.

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