Engine failure and crash at Leningrad-Rzhevka Airport

10 fatalities • Leningrad-Rzhevka, Russia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed short of the runway threshold at Leningrad-Rzhevka Airport following a right engine failure during its final approach.

What happened

During the final approach phase to Leningrad-Rzhevka Airport, the aircraft experienced a loss of power in its right engine while traveling at 165 km/h. In response to the malfunction, the crew attempted to execute a go-around procedure and tried to feather the propeller on the affected engine; however, this attempt was unsuccessful.

Following the engine failure, the aircraft entered a significant right bank of 25 degrees and subsequently pitched downward at an angle of 30 degrees. The plane impacted a wooded area situated approximately 500 meters before reaching the runway threshold. The debris field was located roughly 550 meters to the right of the extended centerline of the runway.

A post-crash fire partially destroyed the airframe. Among the occupants, 10 fatalities were recorded, while four passengers sustained serious injuries.

Findings

The investigation determined that the engine failure was caused by the destruction of the camshaft within the right engine.

Probable cause

The right engine failed during approach due to a broken camshaft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1979-08-03 Let L-410 accident near Leningrad-Rzhevka, Russia?

An aircraft crashed short of the runway threshold at Leningrad-Rzhevka Airport following a right engine failure during its final approach.

Were there any fatalities in the 1979-08-03 Let L-410 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 10 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1979-08-03 involved a Let L-410, registration CCCP-67206, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Leningrad-Rzhevka, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The right engine failed during approach due to a broken camshaft.

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