22 fatalities

Aircraft crash during approach in severe weather (CCCP-L1048)

Khabarovsk, RussiaLanding (descent or approach)

On May 16, 1947, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration CCCP-L1048) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Khabarovsk, Russia during landing or approach. 22 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by the crew continuing the approach in weather conditions below minima without executing a go-around or diversion, compounded by deficiencies in flight organization, operation management, and crew training. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed after striking a radio antenna during a low approach in poor visibility, resulting in the deaths of all 22 people on board.

What happened

During the final approach phase, the flight encountered severe weather that significantly reduced visibility. The aircraft descended to an altitude that was too low for safe clearance. As a result, the right wing made contact with a radio antenna situated 2,600 meters before the runway threshold. This impact caused the aircraft to stall, leading to a crash and a major explosion. All 22 occupants perished in the incident.

Findings

The official investigation determined that the crew was executing the approach procedure under weather conditions that fell below established minima. In such circumstances, standard procedures require the captain to initiate a go-around or divert to an alternative suitable airport. The report highlighted specific deficiencies and irregularities regarding flight organization, operational management, and crew training.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the crew continuing the approach in weather conditions below minima without executing a go-around or diversion, compounded by deficiencies in flight organization, operation management, and crew training.