Lisunov LI-2 accident at Moscow-Vnukovo, Russia, 21 Dec 1943 (CCCP-L4032)
On December 21, 1943, a Lisunov LI-2 (registration CCCP-L4032) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Moscow-Vnukovo, Russia during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Both engines lost power due a faulty conception in the left fuel tank. It was reported that the admission of the fuel pipe was 41 mm above the bottom of the tank. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
Both engines lost power due a faulty conception in the left fuel tank. It was reported that the admission of the fuel pipe was 41 mm above the bottom of the tank. In such circumstances, air was sucked into the fuel line when the fuel reserve passed under the admission mouth. Investigation revealed that 580 liters of fuel remained in an additional tank but the crew failed to switch. Finally, the reaction of the pilot in command was inadequate.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
After completing several maneuvers in Moscow-Vnukovo on a training program, the crew started a new approach. On final, both engines flamed out. The pilot in command pulled the control column back so the aircraft nosed up, stalled and crashed in a wooded area located 800 meters from the boundary fence. Three crew members were killed while four others were seriously injured.
Probable cause (official findings): Both engines lost power due a faulty conception in the left fuel tank. It was reported that the admission of the fuel pipe was 41 mm above the bottom of the tank. In such circumstances, air was sucked into the fuel line when the fuel reserve passed under the admission mouth. Investigation revealed that 580 liters of fuel remained in an additional tank but the crew failed to switch. Finally, the reaction of the pilot in command was inadequate.