Accident Details
The accident occurred during the leg between Yakutsk and Khandyga on a cargo flight scheduled from Yakutsk to Allaikha. The crew had received a favorable weather forecast, but actual conditions were worse. The aircraft deviated from its prescribed flight path due to strong winds and entered clouds. It struck the northwestern slope of the first mountain of the Verkhoyansk Range at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters. After impact, the aircraft fell into a ravine about 120 meters further.
Crew and Occupants
The aircraft carried four crew members, all of whom were killed.
Wreckage Discovery
The wreckage was found eight days later, on May 11, approximately 95 kilometers northwest of Khandyga.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the weather report transmitted to the crew before departure did not reflect actual conditions, which were worse than predicted. Additionally, the crew failed to demonstrate proper discipline and mismanaged the flight, not following published procedures.