6 fatalities

1978-03-30: Antonov AN-8 (20 red) — Soviet Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily CCCP — Stupino-Krutyshki, Russia

Stupino-Krutyshki, RussiaTakeoff (climb)

On March 30, 1978, an Antonov AN-8 (registration 20 red) operated by Soviet Air Force - Voyenno-vozdushnye sily CCCP was involved in an aviation accident near Stupino-Krutyshki, Russia during takeoff. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft lost controllability during the climbing phase of a night training mission. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781226858Data APIEditorial standards

A night training flight ended in a fatal crash near Stupino-Krutyshki Air Base, resulting in the loss of all six crew members.

What happened

During a scheduled night training mission at Stupylino-Krutyshki Air Force Base, an aircraft experienced a catastrophic failure during its initial ascent. Shortly after departing from the runway, the plane entered an uncontrollable state while in the climbing phase of flight.

The aircraft subsequently impacted a forested area situated approximately 4 km away from the airfield. The impact resulted in a large fire at the crash site. There were six fatalities among the crew members on board, with no survivors reported.

Findings

While the specific mechanical or operational reasons for the loss of control have not been detailed in the available reports, the aircraft went out of control during the climb following takeoff.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost controllability during the climbing phase of a night training mission.