Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident at Novosibirsk, Russia, 4 Dec 1945 (CCCP-L950)
On December 4, 1945, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration CCCP-L950) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Novosibirsk, Russia during landing or approach. 16 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was reported that the information related to the weather conditions and transmitted to the crew did not reflect the truth and that the approach was started in below minima conditions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
It was reported that the information related to the weather conditions and transmitted to the crew did not reflect the truth and that the approach was started in below minima conditions. Technical issues with ground communications were considered as a contributory factor.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
The descent to Novosibirsk Airport was started by night and in poor weather conditions with low clouds and fog. On final approach, while at a height of 50 meters, the aircraft hit with its right wing a radio transmitter. The wing was partially sheared off and the aircraft crashed. All 16 occupants were killed.
Probable cause (official findings): It was reported that the information related to the weather conditions and transmitted to the crew did not reflect the truth and that the approach was started in below minima conditions. Technical issues with ground communications were considered as a contributory factor.