On November 22, 1966, an Ilyushin II-18 (registration CCCP-75665) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Almaty, Kazakhstan during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the engine number three during the takeoff roll due to a massive ingestion of wet snow that was thrown out from the right main gear. 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.
During takeoff in poor weather, engine number three failed, likely due to wet snow ingestion. The aircraft veered right, became airborne briefly, struck a mound, and crashed into a hillside, killing three and injuring 65.
Accident Sequence
During the takeoff roll in poor weather conditions, the number three engine failed, probably due to the ingestion of wet snow. The aircraft veered off the snow-covered runway to the right after a roll of 550 meters. It became briefly airborne with a high angle of attack until the tail struck a 70-centimeter-high mound. After losing control, the aircraft crashed in flames onto a hillside located 1,400 meters further on, near a river.
Occupants and Injuries
The accident resulted in the deaths of two passengers and a crew member. All 65 other occupants were injured. The aircraft was destroyed.
Probable Cause
According to official findings, the probable cause of the accident was the failure of engine number three during the takeoff roll due to a massive ingestion of wet snow that was thrown out from the right main gear.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 22 Nov 1966 Ilyushin II-18 accident near Almaty, Kazakhstan?
During takeoff in poor weather, engine number three failed, likely due to wet snow ingestion. The aircraft veered right, became airborne briefly, struck a mound, and crashed into a hillside, killing three and injuring 65.
Were there any fatalities in the 22 Nov 1966 Ilyushin II-18 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Nov 1966 involved an Ilyushin II-18, registration CCCP-75665, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Almaty, Kazakhstan.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Failure of the engine number three during the takeoff roll due to a massive ingestion of wet snow that was thrown out from the right main gear.