Seaplane sinking during training mission on Lake Donuzlav

No fatalities • Lake Donuzlav, Ukraine • Landing (descent or approach)

A seaplane sank in Lake Donuzlav following a heavy landing during a scheduled training flight, though all occupants were safely recovered.

What happened

During a routine training operation conducted on Lake Donuzlav, an unidentified seaplane experienced a significant impact upon contacting the water. The aircraft performed a hard landing that resulted in a subsequent bounce across the surface of the lake. Following this sequence of events, the vessel lost stability and eventually settled into the water, where it sank.

Despite the severity of the impact and the eventual submersion of the aircraft, the emergency response was successful. All four members of the crew were rescued from the scene without reported injuries.

Probable cause

The aircraft sank following a high-impact landing and subsequent bounce on the water surface.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-06-17 Beriev Be-12 accident near Lake Donuzlav, Ukraine?

A seaplane sank in Lake Donuzlav following a heavy landing during a scheduled training flight, though all occupants were safely recovered.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-06-17 Beriev Be-12 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-06-17 involved a Beriev Be-12, registration 16, operated by Soviet Navy - Voyenno-morskoy flot CCCP, at Lake Donuzlav, Ukraine.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft sank following a high-impact landing and subsequent bounce on the water surface.

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