What happened
During a nighttime mission intended to monitor ice conditions for ship navigation in the Laptev Sea, an aircraft was performing an aerial survey over the Vilkitsky Strait. The flight was carrying a total of 11 occupants, consisting of seven crew members and four scientists.
While the aircraft was cruising at an altitude of approximately 250 meters near Peter Island, a navigational error occurred. This mistake resulted in the plane deviating from its intended course and flying in the incorrect direction. As the aircraft approached the shoreline at an inadequate height, it collided with the snow and ice-covered terrain. Following the impact, the aircraft slid for roughly 180 meters before coming to a complete stop. The wreckage was located approximately 38 km southeast of Cape Chelyuskin.
All individuals on board were successfully rescued following the accident. Although there were no fatalities, the aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
Findings
The investigation determined that the primary factor in the accident was a navigation error made by the navigator during the flight.