Accident Overview
On a training flight from Dzhusaly Airport, an airplane departed at 1552 LT bound for Turkestan before returning to Tashkent for the final training leg of the day. The aircraft carried eight crew members, including three navigators. All eight were killed in the accident.
Flight History
Six minutes after takeoff, the crew requested permission to climb to 2,400 meters. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft began to deviate from its prescribed flight plan. After passing over Kyzylorda, the airplane was 72 kilometers off course to the north.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions at the time were marginal. Clouds and icing were present, and visibility was estimated between 4 and 10 kilometers. A strong wind was blowing from the west.
Final Moments
At an altitude of 2,050 meters, the aircraft struck the slope of Mt Mynzhilgi, located in the Karatau region. The crew did not realize the aircraft was off course due to the lack of visibility caused by the poor weather. The wreckage was discovered a day later approximately 126 meters below the summit.
Aftermath
The accident resulted in the deaths of all eight crew members. No other injuries or damage beyond the aircraft were reported.