What happened
On June 28, 2016, between 13:00 and 16:30, a pilot planned several flights using an Elitar-20, registration RA-1286G, based near the Sol-Iletsk (Yelshanka) landing site. On the previous day, the pilot's navigator had submitted a notification to the Samara Air Traffic Control Center to use a runway within a 5 km radius of the landing site, with a maximum flight altitude of 200 meters. This area was classified as Class G airspace.
During the morning of the flight, the pilot was transported to the landing site by a witness. Prior to arriving at the airfield, the pilot purchased 40 liters of AI-9 and 95-grade automotive fuel in two aluminum canisters from a service station in Orenburg. Upon arrival at approximately 12:15, the pilot began pre-flight preparations. Two witnesses assisted with unprotecting the aircraft. The pilot performed operational maintenance, which included replacing the brake pads and completing the necessary maintenance logs.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight planning and the fuel used for the operation. It was noted that the pilot did not undergo a pre-flight medical examination, though this was found to be in compliance with existing regulations for airfields lacking medical personnel. The investigation also reviewed the fuel procurement process, noting that the fuel used was automotive gasoline purchased in canisters rather than aviation-grade fuel.