Departure and Initial Flight
After departing from Sovietskaya Gavan Airport, the crew received permission to continue at their assigned altitude of 2,700 meters. The flight proceeded en route as planned.
Deteriorating Weather
Weather conditions worsened during the flight, with clouds, turbulence, and strong northerly winds reaching speeds of up to 90 km/h. The aircraft entered the Sikhote-Alin Mountain Range area under these adverse conditions.
Loss of Altitude and Descent
While overflying the mountain range, the aircraft encountered downdrafts and began to lose altitude. The crew responded by increasing engine power in an attempt to regain height, but the descent continued. The aircraft eventually struck the slope of Mount Tordoki-Yani, which has an elevation of 1,750 meters. It hit the mountain 20 meters below the summit.
Wreckage Discovery and Fatalities
The wreckage was located on December 21, 1955. All 21 occupants on board were killed in the accident.
Probable Cause
According to official findings, the accident was caused by a severe downdraft that led to a loss of altitude, resulting in the aircraft striking the mountain.