Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident at Khabarovsk, Russia, 16 May 1947 (CCCP-L1048)
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 crew was completing the approach procedure in weather conditions that were considered as below minima. In such situation, the captain should make a go around or divert to the nearest suitable airport. 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.
Probable cause
The crew was completing the approach procedure in weather conditions that were considered as below minima. In such situation, the captain should make a go around or divert to the nearest suitable airport. Deficiencies and irregularities were pointed out in flight organisation, operation management and crew training.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
On final approach, the visibility was poor due to severe weather and as the aircraft was too low, it hit with its right wing a radio antenna located 2,600 meters short of the runway threshold. The aircraft stalled and crashed in a huge explosion, killing all 22 occupants.
Probable cause (official findings): The crew was completing the approach procedure in weather conditions that were considered as below minima. In such situation, the captain should make a go around or divert to the nearest suitable airport. Deficiencies and irregularities were pointed out in flight organisation, operation management and crew training.