Overview
On a flight in good weather conditions, a four-engine aircraft cruising at an altitude of 8,000 meters suddenly went out of control. The aircraft entered a dive, reaching an angle of 107° and a speed of 630 km/h before impacting a snow-covered field located 10 kilometers east of Chebotovka in the Rostov region. The aircraft disintegrated upon impact, and all 59 occupants on board were killed.
Accident Sequence
The accident occurred during cruise flight when the aircraft unexpectedly lost longitudinal stability. According to the official investigation, the flight mechanic had inadvertently positioned the flaps to an angle of 40°. This action reduced the aircraft's longitudinal stability, leading to a rapid loss of control. The resulting dive and high-speed impact left no survivors.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the loss of control was the consequence of an error by the flight mechanic, who inadvertently set the flaps to 40° while in cruising flight. This reduced longitudinal stability and control was rapidly lost. It was also reported that the flap lever was not protected against accidental actuation, which was considered a contributing factor.