Lisunov LI-2 accident at Balkhash, Kazakhstan, 30 Sept 1948 (CCCP-L4304)
On September 30, 1948, a Lisunov LI-2 (registration CCCP-L4304) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Balkhash, Kazakhstan during takeoff. 15 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the pilot in command suffered a spatial disorientation while climbing into clouds. Also, the right wing detached presumably because of aerodynamic forces that exceeded its design. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
It was determined that the pilot in command suffered a spatial disorientation while climbing into clouds. Also, the right wing detached presumably because of aerodynamic forces that exceeded its design.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
Few minutes after its takeoff from Balkhash Airport, while climbing, the aircraft flew into clouds when control was lost. The aircraft banked right and lost altitude. Shortly later, the right wing detached and out of control, the aircraft dove into the ground and crashed in an isolated area located about 39 km northwest of Balkhash. The wreckage was spotted 10 days later, on October 10, and all 15 occupants were killed.
Probable cause (official findings): It was determined that the pilot in command suffered a spatial disorientation while climbing into clouds. Also, the right wing detached presumably because of aerodynamic forces that exceeded its design.