What happened
During a night flight originating from Moscow-Vnukovo Airport, the crew attempted to land at Minsk-2 Airport on runway 31. The approach was complicated by marginal weather conditions that resulted in low visibility. During the initial approach, the crew heard a 'Pull Up' warning, prompting the captain to execute a go-around.
A second landing attempt was initiated several minutes later. While flying at an altitude of approximately 550 metres, the crew identified that they were tuned to the incorrect ILS frequency and performed a correction. As the aircraft continued on final approach, the Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) triggered an alarm that persisted for 35 seconds. Despite these continuous warnings, the captain proceeded with the approach.
The aircraft type struck trees in a forested area located roughly 3 km before reaching the runway. The impact was followed by a post-crash fire that consumed the wreckage. There were five fatalities among the occupants, with no survivors.
Findings
- The crew failed to divert or abort the approach despite the EGPWS alarm sounding for 35 seconds.