Accident Summary
An aircraft on an ice reconnaissance mission departed Aralsk Airport at 0952 local time. Cruising at an altitude of 800 meters, the flight encountered clouds. The pilot decided to descend to maintain visual contact with the sea surface. The airplane descended to 400 meters, where it again entered fog. The crew reduced altitude further, resulting in the aircraft striking the ground. After impact, the aircraft bounced and came to rest 226 meters beyond the initial point of contact.
Injuries and Damage
The crash killed one crew member and two passengers. Seven other occupants were injured. The aircraft was destroyed in the accident.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be the crew's decision to continue operating under visual flight rules (VFR) while in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), which led to the aircraft striking the ground. Additionally, the lack of organization for the reconnaissance mission was cited as a contributing factor.