Approach and Missed Approach
The aircraft approached Stalingrad Airport at night under poor weather conditions with snowfall and fog. On final approach at an altitude of 200 meters, the pilot-in-command failed to establish visual contact with the runway lights and decided to abandon the approach, executing a go-around. Air traffic control advised the crew to divert to Rostov or Voronezh, but the captain obtained permission to attempt a second approach.
Second Approach and Accident
During the second approach, again in poor visibility, the pilot-in-command was unable to establish visual contact with the runway lights. However, he continued the approach despite a request from the copilot to initiate another go-around. The aircraft struck treetops, rolled to the right, and crashed in a field located one kilometer short of the runway threshold.
Outcome
The flight mechanic was killed in the accident, while all other occupants were rescued, some of whom were injured. The aircraft was destroyed.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be: wrong approach configuration and poor techniques on part of the pilot-in-command who decided to continue the approach without visual contact with the runway lights. He also led the airplane passing below the minimum descent altitude without visual contact with the ground and in below-minima weather conditions.