What happened
On May 24, 2017, a Kamov Ka-26, registration RA-19552, operated by Gazprom Avia, was conducting aerial survey work for Gazprom Transgaz Moscow. The mission involved inspecting gas pipelines in the Orlovskoye LPU MG region. The flight crew, consisting of a pilot-in-command and a flight engineer, arrived at the Pleshcheyevo settlement at 05:00 local time.
Following medical checks and coordination with Kaluga air traffic services, the crew experienced a delay in starting operations because a representative from the client organization had not yet arrived. After the client representative arrived at 07:15 and passengers were briefed and seated, the crew initiated engine starts at 07:30. After confirming that specialized inspection equipment was operational, the aircraft taxied to the takeoff area. The pilot took off at 07:40 and began the scheduled flight along the designated route. At 07:46, the aircraft experienced a critical event during the flight phase.