What happened
On August 20, 2011, an ST-2 aircraft, registration RA-0272G, departed from Gostilitsy airfield for a scheduled sightseeing flight. Prior to departure, the pilot obtained necessary air traffic control clearance and recorded a planned flight altitude of 300 meters in the flight decision log. The aircraft was carrying three passengers, all of whom had purchased certificates for the excursion, and no cargo or baggage was on board.
At approximately 11:00, the pilot initiated takeoff. Following the initial climb and the completion of the first turn, the aircraft proceeded toward the settlement of Ropsha. According to eyewitness accounts, the aircraft experienced a sudden descent accompanied by a sharp left turn while flying over the Ropsha area. At 11:15, the aircraft struck the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to be destroyed by fire, resulting in 4 fatalities.