Accident
A four-engine Soviet military aircraft was completing a flight from Tashkent-Yuzhny to Bagram Air Force Base in Kabul, Afghanistan. While descending at night at an altitude of 5,000 feet, the aircraft struck the slope of a mountain located about 36 kilometers from Kabul. The wreckage was found a few hours later, and none of the 47 occupants survived the crash.
Aircraft
The aircraft was a four-engine airplane. No further details about the aircraft type or registration were provided in the investigation.
Passengers and Crew
The aircraft was carrying 38 paratroopers and nine crew members, totaling 47 occupants. All perished in the accident.
Investigation
The accident occurred during the first day of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Investigators determined the probable cause of the crash.
Probable Cause
The official findings stated that the accident was a controlled flight into terrain. Lack of navigation equipment and ground assistance were considered as contributing factors.