8 fatalities

1994-09-30: Antonov AN-8 (RA-27209) — Arsenyev Aviation Production Association — Chaibukha, Russia

Chaibukha, RussiaTakeoff (climb)

On September 30, 1994, an Antonov AN-8 (registration RA-27209) operated by Arsenyev Aviation Production Association was involved in an aviation accident near Chaibukha, Russia during takeoff. 8 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was the consequence of a poor flight preparation and wrong takeoff configuration on part of the crew. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781208662Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo flight overran during takeoff from Chaibukha Airport, resulting in 8 fatalities and 13 injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.

Accident Details

The aircraft was conducting a cargo flight from Arsenyev to Bukhta Provideniya with intermediate stops at Khabarovsk and Chaibukha. It carried 15 passengers, 6 crew members, and a load of six tons of fruits and vegetables.

Sequence of Events

During the takeoff roll from Chaibukha Airport, a misunderstanding occurred among the crew. The pilot-in-command failed to initiate rotation and takeoff. The aircraft continued rolling for approximately 2,250 meters, overran the runway, went through a fence, and came to rest in a swampy area.

Casualties and Damage

Four crew members and four passengers were killed, while 13 other occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.

Probable Cause

Official findings attributed the accident to poor flight preparation and wrong takeoff configuration by the crew. Contributing factors included: rushed takeoff, failure to follow pre-takeoff checklist, inappropriate elevator angle during takeoff, aircraft weight above maximum takeoff weight (MTOW), insufficient crew rest time, fatigue, alcohol detected in the captain's blood, poor crew coordination, crew misunderstanding, pilot-in-command's failure to initiate rotation, and failure to abort the takeoff procedure once it was compromised.