On July 18, 2024, a Robinson R-44 II helicopter was engaged in a flight plan involving several stops in the Aldan District of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The mission, organized by LLC 'SakhaTrade', intended to transport two passengers to the 'Levaya Chagdala' prospecting site, and later pick up seven passengers to move them to a collection point near the confluence of the Gonam and Uchuk rivers.
The flight plan for the aircraft, registration RA-04322, was not submitted to air traffic control authorities. Prior to departure, the captain performed the aircraft preparations. A mechanic assisting with the preparations reported that the helicopter was technically ready for flight, with all scheduled maintenance, fluids, and fuel tanks inspected, and noted no technical malfunctions at the time of departure.
However, the mechanic involved in the preparation process had not undergone professional training or held the required aviation specialist certification. Additionally, the pilot did not receive a weather briefing from the Yakut Hydrometeorological Center before the flight.
The accident resulted in four fatalities. The flight was occurring in mountainous terrain under conditions of low cloud cover.